In a candid interview with Chris Van Vliet on Insight, WWE legend Stone Cold Steve Austin offered a glimpse into the inner workings of the wrestling world, shedding light on why he was not involved in WrestleMania 40. The highly anticipated event, held in Philadelphia, saw a plethora of superstars take to the stage, but Austin’s absence left many fans wondering what could have been.
A WWE Invitation That Never Materialized
Austin revealed that the WWE had indeed reached out to him regarding a potential appearance at WrestleMania 40. The rumors surrounding his involvement had been circulating for weeks, generating significant buzz in the wrestling community. As the event drew near, Austin’s fans were left disappointed to see that he was not in attendance.
According to Austin, the WWE’s invitation was not solely based on his desire to perform in front of a live audience. Instead, it was a calculated move to commemorate the event’s significance. “I think they were trying to create some excitement around the fact that it was in Philadelphia, and I’m a Philly boy at heart. I think they were thinking maybe I could come in and be a part of that, but it just didn’t work out.”
The Weight of Age and Wellness
Austin has been open about his health struggles and the impact of his grueling wrestling schedule on his well-being. The ‘Texas Rattlesnake’ has spoken extensively about the challenges of maintaining his rigorous lifestyle, which often takes a toll on his body. In the context of WrestleMania 40, Austin cited his wellness as a significant factor in his decision not to participate.
“I’ve been beat up and battered for a long time, and the thing is, I’m not 25 years old anymore. I’ve got to be smart about my body and my health. I’ve got to take care of myself, and that’s what I’ve been doing.” Austin’s words serve as a testament to his dedication to his well-being and a reminder that even the most iconic figures in the world of professional wrestling must prioritize their health.
The Allure of In-Ring Competition
Despite his decision not to appear at WrestleMania 40, Austin remains open to the possibility of returning to the ring in the future. When asked about the prospect of a one-off match or a short-term comeback, Austin’s enthusiasm is palpable.
“You never know what the future holds, and I’m always up for a good fight. I’m not saying I’m going to get back in the ring tomorrow, but if the right opportunity came along, I wouldn’t rule it out. I’ve still got that competitive fire burning inside of me, and I think that’s what makes me tick.”
A Potential Future in the WWE
Rumors of Austin’s potential return to the WWE have been circulating for years, and with his comments on Insight, it’s clear that he remains a valuable asset to the organization. While he may not be as active as he once was, Austin’s influence on the WWE cannot be overstated.
According to a source close to the WWE, Austin’s continued involvement behind the scenes has been instrumental in shaping the company’s storytelling and character development. “Stone Cold is still an integral part of the WWE’s creative process. His input and expertise are invaluable, and we’re lucky to have him on board.”
Conclusion
Stone Cold Steve Austin’s absence from WrestleMania 40 may have left fans disappointed, but his candid discussion on Insight serves as a reminder of the realities of the wrestling world. As the WWE continues to evolve and grow, Austin’s legacy remains an integral part of the company’s DNA. Whether he returns to the ring or remains involved behind the scenes, one thing is certain – the ‘Texas Rattlesnake’ will always be a beloved figure in the world of professional wrestling.