The wrestling world was abuzz with speculation when Stone Cold Steve Austin rejected a spot at WrestleMania 40, sparking rumors of a potential jump to All Elite Wrestling (AEW).
However, according to WWE Hall of Famer Kevin Nash, such a move is highly unlikely.
Nash recently spoke on his Kliq This podcast, downplaying the possibility of Austin joining AEW as commissioner or in any other capacity.
Nash’s reasoning is twofold. Firstly, he believes that Austin, now in his 60s, is no longer capable of performing at the level required to be a regular fixture in AEW.
“Number one, Steve ain’t doing anything every week. Nor is anybody in that realm in their life,”
Nash stated. This sentiment is hard to argue with, given Austin’s advanced age and the physical demands of professional wrestling.
Secondly, Nash pointed to Austin’s long history with WWE and his loyalty to the company. It’s difficult to envision Austin, a WWE Hall of Famer, donning an AEW jersey and working for a rival promotion.
The Texas Rattlesnake has been synonymous with WWE for decades, and it would be a drastic departure from his roots.
Another wrestling legend, Jim Ross, offered his own insight into why Austin rejected the WrestleMania 40 spot. Ross, a close friend of Austin’s, speculated that money may have played a significant role in the decision.
According to Ross, Austin would have fit perfectly into the main event of Night Two, but ultimately didn’t appear due to financial disagreements.
In the end, Austin’s spot was filled by The Undertaker, who chokeslammed The Rock to help Cody Rhodes secure the undisputed title.
While fans were denied the opportunity to see Austin make a triumphant return, it’s clear that his loyalty to WWE remains unwavering. For now, any hopes of seeing Stone Cold Steve Austin in an AEW ring appear to be nothing more than fantasy.