Stone Cold Steve Austin Rules Out Final WWE Match but Expresses Interest in Non-Wrestling WrestleMania Moment

Stone Cold Steve Austin confirms he is done with wrestling matches but tells Busted Open Radio he would return for a signature WrestleMania moment.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 16, 2026, 6:15 PM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from Wrestling Inc.

The Texas Rattlesnake Evaluates Potential Return on Austin 3:16 Day

As wrestling fans celebrated the annual "3:16 Day" on March 16, rumors regarding a surprise appearance by Steve Austin began to intensify ahead of a WWE Raw event in San Antonio. Addressing these speculations during an interview on Busted Open Radio, Austin clarified that while he is constantly approached about a return to the ring, he considers himself finished with official competition. His last bout occurred at WrestleMania 38 in a victory over Kevin Owens, a match Austin admitted he wished he had more time to prepare for, though he expressed gratitude that fans still harbor a desire to see him perform.

Physical Limitations and Recent Injuries Shape Retirement Stance

The decision to step away from active wrestling is rooted in significant physical milestones and recent accidents that have tempered Austin’s competitive drive. A little over a year ago, the former champion underwent a knee replacement surgery, a factor he cited as a major deterrent to a full-scale match. Furthermore, Austin revealed a frustrating incident involving a four-wheeler crash against a wall last year, an event he described in blunt terms as a major setback that left him feeling as though he had failed on a large stage, leading him to question his current readiness for high-impact segments.

Prioritizing Current Roster Exposure Over Nostalgia Acts

Despite his status as one of the most bankable stars in industry history, Austin remains a vocal advocate for the advancement of the current WWE locker room. He acknowledged reading social media comments regarding his age and physical viability for a WrestleMania return, stating that he largely agrees with critics who believe the spotlight should remain on younger talent. Austin emphasized that the current roster of men and women requires every available minute of television time to build their own legacies, making him reluctant to lobby for a position that might take away from their development.