Few WWE fans actually thought that Stone Cold Steve Austin would make a return to the ring, but it happened. The Texas Rattlesnakes final match in the squared circle took place against Kevin Owens at WrestleMania 38, and it was a historic moment indeed.
During a recent interview with Chris Van Vliet on Insight, Steve Austin went into why his in-ring return at WrestleMania 38 felt right, how the match with Kevin Owens came together, and what he wishes he had done differently that night. The appearance marked Austins first match since WrestleMania XIX in 2003 and what was billed as his final match.
Austin was asked why WrestleMania 38 was the moment to come back and why Kevin Owens was chosen as his opponent. Austin explained that the idea started with a personal visit from Vince McMahon and that the setting played a major role in his decision.
It was noted that Kevin Owens had used the Stunner in the past, but Steve Austin said that had nothing to do with the decision. He made it clear that Owens was selected because of his overall ability and reliability in the ring.
Stone Cold Steve Austin then reflected on returning to the ring after nearly two decades away and admitted that the lack of physical preparation was noticeable. He referenced advice from other legends, who warned him about timing and conditioning after time away.
Steve Austin also described the surreal feeling of walking to the ring at AT&T Stadium and trying to read the crowd in a massive building. After all, this was his first match in nearly 20 years at that point.
When discussing the match itself, Steve Austin was candid about his conditioning and pacing, saying he wishes he had taken more time to soak in the moment. He certainly didnt want to blow up during his last contest in a WWE ring.
Later in the interview, Van Vliet asked the 61-year-old Austin if he was still capable of wrestling at a high level. Austin didnt hesitate, I could go. God dang it. Obviously, he is still very cofident in his abilities.
When pressed on whether fans would ever see him wrestle again, Austin left the door just barely open. Would I? Probably not. Ill say that. But you say never say never.
Austin defeated Owens in a No Holds Barred match on April 2, 2022, marking his first match in 19 years. While he stands by the moment and the choice of opponent, his comments made it clear that the return was driven by trust, timing, and location. After all, even legends dont walk away without a few second thoughts.
Whats your take on Steve Austins last match in WWE so far? Do you believe that he will wrestle again someday? Let us know what you think in the comments section!
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