Stone Cold Steve Austin
"Stone Cold" Steve Austin, ring name of Steven James Anderson, is a retired American professional wrestler, actor, and podcaster born on December 18, 1964, in Victoria, Texas.[1] Widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in professional wrestling history, he achieved superstardom in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF, later WWE) during the Attitude Era of the late 1990s and early 2000s, embodying a rebellious, beer-chugging anti-authority persona that revolutionized sports entertainment.[2] Austin began his wrestling career in 1989 after training under Chris Adams, debuting in the United States Wrestling Association (USWA) and later joining World Championship Wrestling (WCW) in 1991 as "Stunning" Steve Austin, where he captured the WCW World Television Championship twice and the WCW United States Heavyweight Championship once.[2] He transitioned to the WWF in late 1995 as "The Ringmaster" under manager Ted DiBiase, but broke out in 1996 by winning the King of the Ring tournament, adopting the "Stone Cold" moniker, and delivering his iconic "Austin 3:16" promo that became a cultural touchstone.[2] His signature move, the Stone Cold Stunner, and entrance theme featuring shattering glass sounds amplified his tough, no-nonsense character, leading to intense feuds with stars like Bret Hart, Shawn Michaels, and The Rock.[2] Throughout his WWF tenure, Austin amassed an impressive resume, including six WWF Championships, two Intercontinental Championships, and five World Tag Team Championships (four in WWF and one in WCW).[2] He won the Royal Rumble match three times (1997, 1998, and 2001), tying the record at the time, and headlined WrestleMania XIV (1998), WrestleMania X-Seven (2001), and WrestleMania XIX (2003), often in main events against The Rock or Vince McMahon himself.[2] A pivotal neck injury sustained in a 1997 Intercontinental Championship match against Owen Hart at SummerSlam forced him to vacate the Intercontinental Championship; he underwent surgery in 1999, yet he returned triumphantly, cementing his legacy as the face of the promotion during its most profitable period.[2] Austin officially retired from full-time in-ring competition at WrestleMania XIX in March 2003 after a loss to The Rock, citing cumulative injuries including the neck issue and multiple knee problems.[3] He remained involved with WWE in non-wrestling roles, such as commissioner and on-air authority figure, until 2004. After a 19-year hiatus, he made a surprise return to compete in a No Holds Barred match against Kevin Owens at WrestleMania 38 in April 2022, winning with his Stunner finisher.[4] In recent years, Austin has hosted the podcast The Steve Austin Show since 2014 and starred in the reality series Broken Skull Challenge (2015–2016), while appearing sporadically at WWE events; as of 2025, he serves as a WWE ambassador and received the inaugural "WWE Immortal Moment" award alongside Bret Hart at the WWE Hall of Fame ceremony.[5] Inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2009, his contributions helped propel WWF's shift to the Attitude Era and its victory in the Monday Night Wars against WCW.[2]Early years
Childhood and family background
Steven James Anderson was born on December 18, 1964, in Austin, Texas.[6][7] His biological father departed shortly after his birth, leading to his parents' divorce, after which his mother, Beverly, relocated the family to Victoria, Texas.[7] Beverly remarried Kenneth Williams, an insurance salesman and country western musician, when Austin was 14 years old; the family then moved to Edna, Texas.[6][7] Williams adopted Austin and his four siblings—Scott, Kevin, Jeff, and Jennifer—resulting in Austin's name change to Steven James Williams.[6] Austin, the youngest of the five children, has described the blended family dynamics as challenging yet formative, particularly praising his stepfather for embracing the role of provider and moral guide to the "hell-raising kids."[7] In his early teens, Austin began watching professional wrestling matches on television, an activity that sparked his lifelong passion for the industry and provided an outlet amid the family's transitions.[6]Education and pre-wrestling pursuits
Austin attended Edna High School in Edna, Texas, where he was a straight-A student and a member of the National Honor Society. He also participated in football, making the varsity team as a running back during his sophomore year and playing through graduation.[6][8] After high school, Austin received a football scholarship to Wharton County Junior College, where he continued playing the sport. He later transferred to the University of North Texas on a full scholarship, switching to defense as a linebacker before moving to defensive end following an ACL tear; however, he grew disillusioned with football and dropped out without completing his degree.[6][8] Post-college, Austin took a job on a freight loading dock about 30 miles outside Dallas, earning $400 per week. During this period, he rekindled an early interest in professional wrestling that had begun in junior high when he stumbled upon it while flipping through TV channels, describing how he "fell in love with" the sport and it "just resonated" with him. This passion inspired him to pursue training in 1989.[6]Professional wrestling career
Independent circuit beginnings (1989–1991)
After college football, where he played as a defensive end for the University of North Texas, Steve Austin sought a new athletic outlet and entered professional wrestling.[6] In 1989, Austin began his training under the guidance of British wrestler "Gentleman" Chris Adams at Adams' Wrestling Academy located in the Dallas Sportatorium in Austin, Texas, enrolling for an initial fee of $45 per session.[9] Adams, a former judo champion and veteran of promotions like World Class Championship Wrestling (WCCW), emphasized technical skills and in-ring psychology during the rigorous program, which drew from his experiences in both British and American territories. Austin trained intensely for several months, absorbing fundamentals that would form the basis of his early style, while balancing low-paying jobs to support himself. Austin made his professional debut in September 1989 under the ring name "Steve Williams" in a match for WCCW against Frogman LeBlanc at the Dallas Sportatorium, marking his entry into the Texas independent scene.[10] He quickly transitioned to working regular dates with the United States Wrestling Association (USWA), a Memphis-based territory affiliated with WCCW, where he earned $15 to $20 per appearance and resided in modest accommodations like the Congress Inn in Nashville. Early in his career, Austin experimented with gimmicks such as "Stevie Frost," portraying a cool, calculated performer, while competing in promotions including Texas All-Star Wrestling and WCCW, often in multi-man tags and undercard singles bouts that honed his agility and storytelling ability.[9] These matches, typically held in small venues across Texas and surrounding states, exposed him to regional crowds and established rivalries, including a scripted feud with mentor Adams that culminated in a steel cage match in September 1990 under USWA banners. By late 1989, Austin adopted the "Stunning Steve Austin" persona in USWA, crafted with input from booker Dutch Mantell, featuring bleach-blond hair, flashy red sequined robes, and an arrogant heel character who boasted about his good looks and technical prowess to draw boos from audiences.[6] This gimmick, emphasizing showmanship over brute force, allowed Austin to stand out on cards headlined by established stars, as he delivered promos highlighting his self-proclaimed attractiveness and in-ring superiority, often accompanied by a valet to enhance the vain persona. Through 1990 and into 1991, he defended this character in Texas All-Star Wrestling and WCCW events, winning regional accolades and building a reputation as a reliable midcard talent before attracting national attention.[9]World Championship Wrestling tenure (1991–1995)
Austin signed with World Championship Wrestling (WCW) in 1991, debuting as "Stunning" Steve Austin, a persona carried over from his independent circuit days characterized by a cocky, technically proficient heel style.[11] Early in his WCW tenure, Austin aligned with Paul E. Dangerously (later known as Paul Heyman), joining the Dangerous Alliance stable alongside veterans Rick Rude and Arn Anderson, among others.[11] This group, formed in late 1991, emphasized ruthless dominance and held multiple championships, with Austin capturing the WCW World Television Championship in May 1992 and defending it successfully against challengers like Barry Windham and Sting.[11] The stable's impact peaked at events like WrestleWar 1992, where they clashed in a high-stakes WarGames match against Sting's team, showcasing Austin's emerging intensity as a key enforcer.[11] By late 1992, WCW paired Austin with Brian Pillman to bolster the tag team division, forming the Hollywood Blonds in early 1993—a flashy, arrogant duo inspired by classic heel teams.[12] The pair quickly rose to prominence, defeating Ricky Steamboat and Shane Douglas on the March 27, 1993, episode of WCW Power Hour to win the unified NWA/WCW World Tag Team Championship.[12] Their reign lasted until June 1993, highlighted by defenses against top teams and memorable promos mocking legends like Ric Flair and Arn Anderson on segments such as "A Flair for the Gold."[12] As tag champions, the Hollywood Blonds engaged in intense feuds with prominent duos, including the Steiner Brothers, whose powerhouse style contrasted Austin and Pillman's agile, opportunistic approach in high-profile matches throughout 1993.[13] Following the tag title loss to Arn Anderson and Paul Roma at Clash of the Champions XXIII in August 1993, Austin briefly aligned with Colonel Robert Parker's Stud Stable later that year, a cowboy-themed group featuring Terry Funk and Bunkhouse Buck, adding to his heel credentials amid ongoing tag division rivalries.[14] Transitioning to singles competition in 1994, Austin captured the WCW United States Championship by defeating Ricky Steamboat on the July 17 episode of WCW Saturday Night, marking his first major individual title in the promotion.[14] Under Parker's management as part of the Stud Stable, Austin defended the belt against challengers like Johnny B. Badd at Slamboree 1994 and Marcus Bagwell, solidifying his status as a cunning midcard star.[14] His reign ended abruptly at Fall Brawl on September 18, 1994, when Jim Duggan pinned him to win the title in a WarGames aftermath match.[15] In late 1994, Austin suffered a torn triceps injury during a house show match against Cactus Jack (Mick Foley) in December, sidelining him for months.[16] While rehabilitating in 1995, tensions arose with WCW executive Eric Bischoff; during a phone call arranged by announcer Tony Schiavone for a potential backstage promo, Austin refused to participate, leading Bischoff to view him as unreliable.[16] On September 15, 1995, Bischoff fired Austin via FedEx, citing the incident and doubts about his marketability despite his guaranteed contract.[16]Extreme Championship Wrestling stint (1995)
Following his release from World Championship Wrestling in September 1995, Steve Austin made his debut appearance on Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW) television on the September 26, 1995 episode of ECW Hardcore TV, where he delivered a promo imitating Hulk Hogan to draw boos from the crowd.[17] Billed as "Superstar" Steve Austin, he positioned himself as an arrogant newcomer ready to dominate the promotion, marking a shift from his "Stunning" Steve persona in WCW.[18] Austin's in-ring debut came at ECW's November to Remember event on November 18, 1995, in the ECW Arena, where he challenged ECW World Heavyweight Champion Mikey Whipwreck in a non-title match but lost via a controversial roll-up pin after 4 minutes and 32 seconds.[19] The opportunity arose from Austin's interference in a planned title match between Whipwreck and The Sandman earlier that night, where he attacked the intoxicated Sandman with a chair and stole his spot in the bout, igniting a heated feud.[20] This confrontation highlighted Austin's emerging aggressive style, as he mocked Sandman's beer-drinking entrance and hardcore reputation during backstage segments.[21] The rivalry escalated at December to Dismember on December 9, 1995, in a three-way elimination match for the ECW World Heavyweight Championship also involving Whipwreck and Sandman; Austin eliminated Whipwreck but was pinned by Sandman after 19 minutes of brawling that incorporated weapons like brass knuckles and kendo sticks, showcasing ECW's hardcore elements.[21] During his brief tenure, Austin honed an anti-authority trash-talking persona through unscripted promos, including a legendary late-night rant taped around 4 a.m. after a show, where he freely vented frustrations about WCW and asserted his superiority, laying groundwork for his future edgier character.[22] ECW booker Paul Heyman praised this raw delivery as a turning point, noting it captured Austin's natural intensity without interference.[22] Austin departed ECW shortly after the December event, having signed a contract with the World Wrestling Federation (WWF), with his final appearance being the three-way title match.[20] His four-month stint, though short, exposed him to ECW's gritty environment and allowed him to experiment with provocative mic work that emphasized rebellion against establishment figures, influencing his subsequent WWE evolution.[18]WWE debut and "Stone Cold" persona emergence (1995–1996)
In late 1995, following his brief stint in Extreme Championship Wrestling, Steve Austin signed a contract with the World Wrestling Federation (WWF).[23] He made his WWF television debut on the January 8, 1996, episode of Monday Night Raw, portraying the character "The Ringmaster," a stoic, technically proficient wrestler managed by Ted DiBiase, the "Million Dollar Man."[24] DiBiase immediately awarded Austin the Million Dollar Championship, positioning him as the latest addition to his stable of "bought" champions and marking Austin's first title in the promotion.[25] As The Ringmaster, Austin quickly entered a feud with Savio Vega, a rivalry stemming from Vega's opposition to DiBiase's influence in the WWF. Austin defeated Vega in a singles match at WrestleMania XII on March 31, 1996, showcasing his in-ring skills but struggling to connect with audiences through the bland gimmick.[24] The feud escalated to a Caribbean Strap match at In Your House: Beware of Dog on May 28, 1996, where Vega emerged victorious, resulting in DiBiase's contractual obligation to depart the WWF and leave Austin without managerial support.[25] This loss prompted a transitional period for Austin, as he began experimenting with edgier promos inspired by his hardcore style developed during a brief ECW run earlier that year. Without DiBiase, Austin sought to redefine his image, aiming for a tougher, more rebellious persona that emphasized ruthlessness and anti-authority attitudes. He adopted the ring name "Stone Cold" Steve Austin in mid-1996, a moniker suggested by his then-wife Jennie Clarke to evoke a "cold-blooded killer" vibe during discussions about his faltering character.[26] His first match under the new name occurred on the March 11, 1996, episode of Raw against Vega, though the full persona—with its signature beer-drinking, middle-finger gestures, and gravelly delivery—solidified over the summer through unscripted, confrontational interviews that highlighted his growing disdain for WWF establishment figures.[24] The emergence of the Stone Cold character coincided with Austin's first major WWF feud against Bret Hart, a technical master and the promotion's top babyface. The rivalry ignited in August 1996 when Austin positioned himself as Hart's challenger, mocking the Canadian wrestler's precision style with brash, anti-hero promos that blurred lines between heel and fan favorite.[27] Their animosity peaked in a Submission match at In Your House: Mind Games on September 22, 1996, where Hart forced Austin to pass out in the Sharpshooter after a brutal, bloody brawl that spilled into the crowd and involved improvised weapons.[27] This encounter elevated Austin's status, as his resilience in defeat began drawing sympathy and cheers from audiences, foreshadowing the anti-establishment icon he would become.Rise to prominence and Austin 3:16 era (1996–1997)
In June 1996, Steve Austin, competing as "Stone Cold" Steve Austin, won the King of the Ring tournament by defeating Jake "The Snake" Roberts in the final match held at the Nutter Center in Dayton, Ohio.[28] This victory marked a pivotal moment in his career, elevating him from mid-card status to a top contender in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF).[2] Following his tournament triumph, Austin delivered a legendary post-match promo that encapsulated his rebellious, anti-authority persona. In the interview, he mocked Roberts' religious faith by declaring, "You sit there and you thump your Bible, and you say your prayers, and it didn't get you anywhere. Talk about your Psalms, talk about John 3:16... Austin 3:16 says I just whipped your ass!"[28] The "Austin 3:16" catchphrase quickly became a cultural phenomenon, boosting merchandise sales and fan engagement, while signaling the shift toward edgier content in WWF programming.[29] Buoyed by the promo's success, Austin inserted himself into the WWF Championship picture as the number-one contender to champion Shawn Michaels throughout late 1996, engaging in heated verbal exchanges and physical confrontations that highlighted his brash style.[2] However, Michaels' storyline injury led to a title change, and Austin's momentum carried into a burgeoning rivalry with Bret Hart, sparked by Hart's interference in a potential title opportunity. This feud ignited at Survivor Series on November 17, 1996, where Hart defeated Austin in a hard-fought singles match at Madison Square Garden, solidifying Austin's reputation as a resilient babyface despite the loss.[30] The Austin-Hart rivalry escalated into 1997, culminating in a No Disqualification Submission Match at WrestleMania 13 on March 23 at the Rosemont Horizon in Rosemont, Illinois. In a brutally intense bout remembered for its realism and drama, Austin refused to submit to Hart's signature Sharpshooter hold, passing out from blood loss and pain instead, which paradoxically turned him into the sympathetic hero of the evening as the crowd chanted his name.[31] Hart won the match by technical submission, but Austin's unyielding performance garnered widespread acclaim and propelled him to superstardom, cementing the "Austin 3:16" era as the foundation of his iconic status in professional wrestling.[32]Iconic feud with Vince McMahon (1998–1999)
The iconic feud between "Stone Cold" Steve Austin and WWF Chairman Vince McMahon ignited on March 29, 1998, at WrestleMania XIV, when Austin captured the WWF Championship from Shawn Michaels in the main event. With former boxer Mike Tyson serving as the special enforcer—a high-profile signing by McMahon to boost ratings—Tyson shockingly turned on Michaels and D-Generation X (DX) by slapping McMahon during the match, enabling Austin to secure the pinfall victory and usher in the "Austin Era." This moment symbolized Austin's rebellious persona clashing with McMahon's authoritarian control, transforming their boss-employee dynamic into a central narrative that drove WWF's shift toward edgier, reality-blurring content during the Attitude Era. Throughout 1998, the rivalry escalated through a series of chaotic confrontations, with McMahon employing proxies and corporate tactics to undermine Austin's reign. DX, initially aligned against McMahon, became entangled in the storyline as Austin's unlikely allies at times, while McMahon began forming The Corporation in late 1998—a stable of handpicked enforcers including The Rock, Ken Shamrock, and Big Show—to counter Austin's dominance. A defining on-air moment occurred on the June 15, 1998, episode of Raw, where Austin interrupted McMahon's celebration, defied direct orders, and delivered a Stone Cold Stunner to the boss for the first time in this intensified phase of the feud, leading to Austin's scripted arrest and amplifying the theme of anti-corporate rebellion. Other highlights included Austin filling McMahon's Corvette with cement on the October 12, 1998, Raw, humiliating the chairman and symbolizing Austin's disregard for authority, as well as dousing McMahon and The Corporation with beer from a Coors Light truck on the March 22, 1999, Raw, further cementing Austin's beer-swilling, middle-finger-raising image.[33] In 1999, the feud reached new heights of absurdity and intensity, incorporating family elements and extreme physicality. McMahon expanded The Corporation to include his son Shane, escalating the personal stakes, while Austin defended his title amid constant interference, such as at Over the Edge on May 23, 1999, where McMahon and Shane rigged the main event against Austin and The Undertaker, leading to a controversial loss for Austin via fast-count. A notorious angle unfolded later that year at Survivor Series on November 14, 1999, where Austin was run over by a mystery driver in a storyline car crash orchestrated by McMahon and The Corporation, sidelining the champion and building suspense around his "injury" to heighten the feud's drama—though presented as fictional within the narrative, it mirrored real tensions in WWF's creative direction. At the 1999 Royal Rumble on January 24, McMahon won the match by eliminating Austin last. Austin returned as special referee in the main event, helping The Rock retain the title against Mankind. Austin then defeated The Rock on the February 15 episode of Raw for his third WWF Championship reign. The rivalry culminated at WrestleMania XV on March 28, 1999, where Austin lost the title to The Rock in a no-disqualification match, with McMahon's interference ensuring the outcome and temporarily shifting power back to the Corporation.[34]Multiple title reigns and The Alliance storyline (1999–2001)
Entering WrestleMania XV on March 28, 1999, as champion for his third reign, Austin lost the WWF Championship to The Rock in a no disqualification match, with interference from Vince McMahon ensuring the outcome.[35] This victory solidified Austin's status as the promotion's premier draw, following a year of high-profile defenses and personal animosity with The Rock that had escalated from verbal barbs to brutal in-ring confrontations. At Over the Edge on May 23, 1999, Austin lost a non-title match to The Undertaker due to interference from Mankind, intensifying their rivalry. Meanwhile, The Undertaker defeated Big Show to win the WWF Championship in the main event. Austin quickly rebounded, reclaiming the WWF Championship for his fourth reign on the June 28 episode of Raw is War by defeating The Undertaker in a grueling match that showcased his resilience and signature brawling style.[36] His feud with Mankind intensified shortly after, culminating at SummerSlam on August 22 in a triple threat match also involving Triple H, refereed by Jesse Ventura; Mankind pinned Triple H after a chaotic sequence, ending Austin's reign and shifting the spotlight to the unpredictable hardcore specialist.[37] After The Undertaker vacated the WWF Championship due to storyline injury in June 1999, Austin remained active in the title picture. Later, following further changes, he served as special enforcer in the six-pack challenge for the vacant championship at Unforgiven on September 26, ensuring order amid a referee strike while Mankind emerged victorious in the multi-man melee.[38] Austin's involvement underscored his authority in WWF storylines, though he failed to regain the gold in a subsequent challenge against Triple H at No Mercy on October 17, where the champion retained via pinfall in an anything-goes matchup.[39] Entering 2001, Austin's rivalry with The Rock reached its zenith at WrestleMania X-Seven on April 1, where he defeated the champion in a no disqualification match for his fifth WWF Championship reign, controversially aligning with longtime adversary Vince McMahon for interference that stunned fans and marked a dramatic heel turn from his anti-authority persona. This betrayal, involving McMahon handing Austin a steel chair for repeated strikes on The Rock, propelled Austin to victory but alienated much of the audience, though the event drew a record 67,925 attendees to the Reliant Astrodome, affirming the duo's unparalleled drawing power as wrestling's biggest stars.[40] The storyline evolved into the WCW/ECW Invasion angle, with Austin defecting to lead The Alliance—a coalition of invading WCW and ECW talent—during the Invasion pay-per-view on July 22, turning on Team WWF in the main event to bolster the faction's bid for control.[41] As The Alliance's de facto leader, Austin defended the group's interests through aggressive promos and matches, briefly regaining the WWF Championship for a sixth and final time on the October 8 episode of Raw by defeating Kurt Angle with assistance from Commissioner William Regal, emphasizing his commanding presence amid the inter-promotional war. After the Alliance's defeat at Survivor Series on November 18, 2001, where Austin captained the losing team against Team WWF in a winner-takes-all elimination match, leading to the faction's dissolution after The Rock's pinfall victory sealed WWF's survival, Austin was storyline fired by Vince McMahon.[42] This reign lasted until December 9, 2001, at Vengeance, where Kurt Angle defeated Austin to win the WWF Championship. Due to a no-compete clause from his WCW days, Austin could not compete at WrestleMania X8 in 2002 but appeared in non-wrestling segments.Injury setbacks, final matches, and retirement (2002–2003)
Austin's career in 2002 was marked by escalating injury concerns stemming from a 1997 neck fracture sustained during a match with Owen Hart, which had required fusion surgery in 2000 and left him with ongoing spinal issues, including stenosis.[43] These problems, combined with creative frustrations over booking decisions—particularly reluctance to lose to rising star Brock Lesnar—culminated in his abrupt walkout from WWE on June 10, 2002, just hours before a scheduled Raw episode where he was set to compete. The departure highlighted the physical toll of his high-impact style, as doctors had warned that continued wrestling could risk permanent damage or paralysis.[44] Following months of absence for recovery and reflection, Austin made a surprise return at No Way Out on February 23, 2003, defeating Raw General Manager Eric Bischoff in a match that reignited his anti-authority persona and drew massive crowd reactions. His comeback storyline involved clashing with the nWo remnants and Evolution faction, leading to a heated feud with Triple H, whom he confronted multiple times on Raw, including a notable call-out segment on May 19, 2003, amid ongoing tensions over backstage politics and in-ring dominance.[45] Earlier in 2002, before the walkout, Austin had feuded with Scott Hall upon the nWo's WWE invasion, culminating in a decisive victory over Hall at WrestleMania X8 on March 17, 2002, where he overcame interference to secure the win with his signature Stunner.[46] During his final full-time run in 2003, Austin defeated The Rock in a no-holds-barred non-title match at Backlash on April 28, continuing their storied rivalry. He continued delivering signature antics against Vince McMahon, including Stunner attacks and a post-Raw beer bash on August 5, 2002, where he hosed down Hulk Hogan and the crowd with a beer truck in a nod to his rebellious character, as well as hospital-themed gags mocking McMahon's on-screen ailments to heighten their long-standing rivalry.[47] Austin's in-ring career concluded at WrestleMania XIX on April 6, 2003, in Seattle, where he faced The Rock in their third and final WrestleMania clash, a brutal no-holds-barred bout that saw Austin absorb punishing offense before losing via pinfall after 20 minutes of intense action.[48] The match, held despite Austin being hospitalized the previous night due to severe neck pain and stinger symptoms, proved to be his last; immediately following the event, he announced his retirement, citing spinal stenosis, accumulated trauma from years of hardcore matches, and medical advice against further competition to avoid irreversible harm.[49] This decision ended a storied run that had defined WWE's Attitude Era, leaving a void in the promotion's top-star landscape.[50]Post-retirement WWE roles (2003–2004)
Following his in-ring retirement at WrestleMania XIX in March 2003, Austin transitioned to an on-screen authority figure within WWE, beginning with his appointment as co-General Manager of Raw on the April 28 episode, sharing the role with Eric Bischoff to maintain his prominent presence without physical competition.[51] In this capacity, Austin immediately implemented changes, such as reinstating the Intercontinental Championship on May 5, 2003, to revitalize the brand's midcard division.[52] The position allowed him to embody his rebellious persona while influencing storylines from a managerial standpoint. Austin's tenure as co-GM was defined by an intense feud with Bischoff, marked by chaotic run-ins and signature antics that highlighted their power struggle. Notable incidents included Austin arriving on an ATV to interrupt Bischoff during segments and forcing him into humiliating beer bashes, where Austin doused his rival with cans of beer amid crowd chants.[53] The rivalry escalated with Austin delivering three Stone Cold Stunners to Bischoff at No Way Out in February 2003, sending a clear message of dominance.[54] This conflict peaked at Survivor Series on November 16, 2003, where Austin captained Team Austin (Booker T, The Dudley Boyz, Rob Van Dam, and Shawn Michaels) against Team Bischoff in a 5-on-5 elimination match, with his co-GM position on the line; the loss forced Austin to relinquish the role.[55] In early 2004, Austin returned to Raw in the new gimmick of "Sheriff," tasked with upholding order and countering abuses of power, particularly from General Manager Eric Bischoff and the dominant faction Evolution (Triple H, Ric Flair, Randy Orton, and Batista).[2] As Sheriff, he enforced penalties, such as fining Bischoff for misconduct, and intervened in Evolution's reign of terror, including a January 12 episode where he threatened to run them down with his ATV during a confrontation.[56] Austin also wielded authority to shape major events, announcing the Triple H vs. Chris Benoit vs. Shawn Michaels main event for WrestleMania XX on the February 16 episode.[57] His Sheriff role concluded following a storyline loss to rising star John Cena in a non-title confrontation, marking his final regular television appearance on the August 30 episode of Raw.[2]Sporadic in-ring returns and appearances (2005–2014)
Following his retirement from full-time wrestling in 2003, "Stone Cold" Steve Austin made several limited appearances in WWE, often involving physical involvement or authority roles that allowed him to interact with the roster without committing to extended storylines. These sporadic returns kept his legendary anti-authority persona alive while respecting his injury history. In 2005, Austin returned to WWE television on the June 13 episode of Raw in Binghamton, New York, positioned as a deputized "sheriff" to resolve backstage injustices caused by Raw General Manager Eric Bischoff. This role led to a high-energy beer bash segment with then-rising star John Cena on the July 25 episode of Raw, where the two icons shared beers in a nod to Austin's signature celebrations, though no formal match occurred at Unforgiven later that year. The appearance underscored Austin's enduring popularity and his ability to elevate younger talent through non-competitive spots. Later that year, Austin's involvement tapered off as he focused on acting projects, but his brief run reinforced his status as a special attraction. Austin's next notable WWE involvement came in 2006 at ECW One Night Stand, where he served as special guest referee for the Extreme Rules match between WWE Champion John Cena and Rob Van Dam. True to form, Austin refused to maintain neutrality, stunning both competitors and causing chaos that contributed to the match's no-contest finish amid interference from the ECW roster. This physical appearance highlighted his willingness to engage in high-impact moments despite retirement, drawing massive crowd reactions and bridging WWE's main roster with the revived ECW brand. By 2009, Austin's legacy was formally honored with his induction into the WWE Hall of Fame on April 4 in Houston, Texas, just before WrestleMania 25. Inducted by Vince McMahon, Austin delivered a 20-minute speech that mixed gratitude with humor, roasting fellow Hall of Famers like Ric Flair for his "Woooo!" catchphrase and long robes, as well as McMahon for their infamous on-screen rivalry. He expressed deep emotion toward the WWE Universe, stating, "I want to tell each and every one of you that ever watched Steve Austin: thank you so much," crediting fans for his success. The induction, attended by thousands, cemented Austin as the Attitude Era's defining figure and led to occasional non-wrestling cameos.[58] Austin's most prominent in-ring spot during this period occurred at WrestleMania 27 on April 3, 2011, in Atlanta, where he acted as special guest referee for the grudge match between Jerry Lawler and Michael Cole inside the "Cole Mine" plexiglass structure. Austin enforced the rules with bias toward entertainment, rejecting Cole's requests for outside help and delivering a Stone Cold Stunner to interfering Jack Swagger, ensuring Lawler's disqualification loss but stealing the show with his physicality. Backstage, Austin had a tense face-to-face confrontation with The Rock, teasing unresolved tension from their past, while the event's main event saw The Rock aid The Miz in defeating Cena for the WWE Championship—setting up future rivalries without Austin directly competing against them.[59] This appearance drew one of the loudest reactions of the night, proving Austin's draw remained unmatched. In 2012, Austin made a surprise appearance on the June 11 episode of Raw, confronting WWE Champion CM Punk over Punk's complaints about WWE's treatment of legends. The exchange escalated into Austin delivering a Stunner to Punk, echoing his history of disciplining outspoken Superstars and generating buzz ahead of Raw's 1,000th episode the following month. Though Austin did not appear at Raw 1000 itself, the spot reinforced his role as an unpredictable enforcer. Outside the ring but tied to his WWE persona, Austin launched "The Steve Austin Show" podcast in 2013, hosted on PodcastOne, where he interviewed wrestling peers and shared stories from his career, including behind-the-scenes insights from his Attitude Era run. The show quickly gained popularity, with episodes featuring guests like Ric Flair and Hulk Hogan, extending Austin's influence into digital media while occasionally referencing WWE events.[60] These appearances from 2005 to 2014 showcased Austin's selective involvement, prioritizing impactful moments over regular competition and maintaining his icon status without risking further injury.Hall of Fame induction and occasional comebacks (2015–2021)
In 2015, Austin made a notable return to WWE programming after a four-year absence from the ring area, appearing on the October 19 episode of Raw to promote his podcast and set the stage for an upcoming confrontation between Brock Lesnar and The Undertaker.[61] During the segment, he delivered his signature energy to hype the WWE Universe, emphasizing his enduring connection to the company despite his retirement from full-time competition.[62] Austin's surprise involvement escalated at WrestleMania 32 on April 3, 2016, where he joined fellow Hall of Famers Shawn Michaels and Mick Foley in interrupting The New Day's post-match celebration following the Shane McMahon vs. The Undertaker main event.[63] The trio laid into the champions with signature moves, culminating in Austin delivering Stunners to Xavier Woods and, after Vince McMahon emerged to back The New Day, to McMahon himself, reigniting their iconic rivalry to a massive crowd reaction.[64] This appearance underscored Austin's role as a special attraction, blending nostalgia with high-impact spots without committing to a full match. Shifting toward media contributions, Austin launched The Broken Skull Sessions on WWE Network, debuting the interview series on November 24, 2019, with a candid discussion featuring The Undertaker on his legendary career and personal challenges.[65] The show quickly became a platform for in-depth conversations with wrestling figures, including a 2021 episode with Chris Jericho exploring psychology, transitions between promotions, and career-defining moments like their 2001 feud.[66] These sessions highlighted Austin's evolution into a respected interviewer, drawing on his insider perspective to elicit revealing insights from peers. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Austin adapted to WWE's production changes with virtual and no-audience appearances, maintaining his presence through the empty-arena era that began in March 2020.[67] On the March 16, 2020, episode of Raw—billed as 3:16 Day and originating from the WWE Performance Center without fans— he declared the date a national holiday, stunned interviewer Byron Saxton twice, and shared beers with Becky Lynch in a celebratory segment that evoked his Attitude Era roots while navigating the surreal setting.[68] This reunion-style moment with current stars like Lynch and The Street Profits provided a morale boost during restricted live events, reinforcing Austin's timeless appeal even in altered formats.[69]Recent one-off matches and ongoing involvement (2022–2025)
Austin made a highly anticipated in-ring return after nearly two decades away, facing Kevin Owens in an impromptu No Holds Barred match that headlined Night 1 of WrestleMania 38 on April 3, 2022. The bout, which stemmed from Owens' on-air challenge, saw Austin deliver multiple Stunners to secure the victory, electrifying the crowd at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. This marked his first sanctioned match since WrestleMania XIX in 2003 and was billed as a one-off spectacle leveraging his Hall of Fame status.[70] Following the WrestleMania triumph, Austin's WWE involvement remained sporadic, with brief cameos on Raw and SmackDown throughout 2022 and 2023 that often featured his signature Stunner. These appearances kept his presence felt without committing to full-time storylines, including interactions tied to emerging talents like Logan Paul, where negotiations for promotional crossovers highlighted ongoing tensions and respect within the roster. By 2023, rumors of potential matches, such as against Roman Reigns, circulated but did not materialize, underscoring Austin's selective engagement.[71] In 2025, Austin continued his pattern of surprise involvement at WrestleMania 41 on April 20, entering on an ATV that dramatically crashed into the ringside barricade during his lap around the venue in Las Vegas. Despite the mishap, which he later attributed to a throttle issue and expressed embarrassment over, the entrance celebrated his enduring draw, as he announced the event's attendance before celebrating with beers alongside the crowd. This non-competitive role reinforced his role as a special attraction.[72] Throughout 2025, Austin teased the possibility of "one more match" in interviews, expressing openness during WrestleMania Week in June and providing an update in October amid speculation for WrestleMania 42. Concurrently, he announced the revival of his Broken Skull Sessions podcast in October, signaling a return to WWE Network programming after a hiatus since 2022. Austin maintained active engagement with fans via Instagram (@steveaustinbsr), sharing personal updates, while his dedicated racing page (@steveaustinracing) highlighted off-screen pursuits like motorsports events.[71][73][74][75]Legacy and influence
Impact on professional wrestling
Stone Cold Steve Austin played a pivotal role in launching WWE's Attitude Era, a period of edgier, adult-oriented programming that transformed the company from near financial ruin to industry dominance between 1997 and 2001. As the era's most impactful star, Austin's rebellious character drove unprecedented popularity, with WWE achieving record-breaking cable television ratings, pay-per-view buy rates exceeding 1 million for major events, and overall revenue surges that solidified the company's survival. His involvement in high-profile crossovers, such as enlisting Mike Tyson for WrestleMania XIV in 1998, marked a turning point in the Monday Night Wars, helping WWE overtake WCW in the ratings battle after 83 consecutive weeks of losses.[76] Austin's creation of the anti-hero rebel persona—a defiant, beer-swilling everyman who challenged authority without conforming to traditional heroic tropes—redefined character archetypes in professional wrestling and influenced subsequent generations of performers. This archetype emphasized raw authenticity and fan relatability over polished heroism, paving the way for modern stars like CM Punk, whose anti-establishment promos and independence echoed Austin's style of pushing against corporate constraints. Similarly, Becky Lynch drew direct parallels as an anti-hero, evolving from an overlooked underdog to a bold, unapologetic figurehead known as "The Man," whose defiant attitude and crowd-commanding presence mirrored Austin's blueprint for blending heel aggression with babyface appeal.[77][78] Austin's mastery of microphone skills and unscripted promos shifted wrestling booking paradigms, prioritizing verbal storytelling and charisma over pure athleticism in an era increasingly focused on spectacle. Unlike predecessors who relied heavily on in-ring prowess, Austin's cutting, improvisational rants—often laced with irreverent humor and direct audience engagement—became central to building feuds and drawing viewers, influencing bookers to craft narratives around personality-driven conflicts rather than match technicality alone. This emphasis elevated promos as a core element of WWE programming, setting a standard that continues to shape how wrestlers are presented today.[79][80] Through his unparalleled personal draw power, Austin was instrumental in WWE's triumph over WCW during the Monday Night Wars, serving as the company's top attraction whose appearances consistently spiked attendance and viewership. As the most important wrestler of that competitive era, Austin's ability to generate massive merchandise sales—exemplified by the iconic "Austin 3:16" T-shirt—and command live crowds helped WWE not only reclaim the ratings lead but also outlast its rival, culminating in WCW's acquisition in 2001.[81][76]Cultural significance and pop culture icon status
Stone Cold Steve Austin's "Austin 3:16" catchphrase, coined during his 1996 King of the Ring victory speech, emerged as a defining symbol of defiance and rebellion, transcending professional wrestling to become a staple of 1990s pop culture.[82] This phrase, a satirical twist on the biblical John 3:16, encapsulated Austin's anti-authority persona and propelled massive merchandise sales, with WWE reporting tens of millions of "Austin 3:16" T-shirts sold over the years, generating over $12 million in revenue for Austin alone in its peak year of 1997.[83][84] The slogan's ubiquity extended its influence into everyday language, embodying the era's countercultural rejection of conformity and authority figures.[85] Austin's persona permeated non-wrestling media through animated parodies and guest spots, amplifying his status as a pop culture anti-hero. In 1998, he voiced himself in an episode of MTV's Celebrity Deathmatch, engaging in a claymation brawl against WWE owner Vince McMahon that highlighted their real-life feud and drew millions of viewers outside the wrestling audience.[86] Similarly, Family Guy referenced and parodied Austin's signature beer-bashing and Stunner moves in multiple cutaway gags.[87] These appearances underscored Austin's breakthrough during the Attitude Era, where his rebellious image helped WWE cross into mainstream entertainment.[87] Austin's tough-guy image also fueled high-profile endorsements and shaped tropes in reality television. His on-screen affinity for beer led to the creation of "Steveweiser," a branded version of Budweiser used in WWE segments, symbolizing his hard-partying persona and tying into the company's sponsorship deal that featured him dousing opponents with cases of the beverage.[88] This archetype influenced reality TV formats, as Austin hosted shows like Tough Enough (2011), Redneck Island (2012–2017), and Broken Skull Challenge (2014–2017), where contestants endured grueling physical tests under his no-nonsense oversight, popularizing the rugged, authoritative host as a staple of competition-based programming.[89][90] Austin's enduring recognition includes frequent placements in WWE's official rankings, such as their lists of top superstars and moments, where he is often ranked among the all-time elite for revolutionizing the industry. In 2025, he received the inaugural "WWE Immortal Moment" award alongside Bret Hart at the WWE Hall of Fame ceremony, further cementing his lasting influence.[91][5] His impact on 1990s counterculture lay in channeling widespread disillusionment with corporate America through his blue-collar rebel character, resonating with fans as an everyman antagonist to the establishment and boosting WWE's ratings to record highs.[92]Other media and ventures
Film, television, and acting roles
Austin made his acting debut in television with a recurring role as Detective Jake Cage on the CBS series Nash Bridges, appearing in six episodes across the fourth and fifth seasons starting in 1999.[93] In this role, he portrayed a tough, street-smart cop, marking an early foray into scripted acting outside professional wrestling.[94] His feature film debut followed in 2005 with the Adam Sandler-led remake of The Longest Yard, where he played the antagonistic prison guard Dunham alongside fellow wrestlers Kevin Nash and Dalip Singh.[95] The sports comedy highlighted Austin's physical presence in a supporting villainous capacity, contributing to the film's ensemble of tough-guy characters.[96] In 2007, Austin took the lead role of Jack Conrad, a condemned prisoner forced into a deadly reality show competition, in the action thriller The Condemned, which he also executive produced through WWE Studios.[97] The film drew on his wrestling persona for its high-stakes fight sequences, positioning him as a rugged anti-hero fighting for survival.[98] Austin appeared in the 2010 ensemble action film The Expendables as the mercenary Paine, a henchman under the command of Jean Vilain.[99] During production, a scripted fight scene with Sylvester Stallone resulted in Stallone fracturing his neck, an injury that necessitated seven major surgeries and left him "physically never the same," as Stallone detailed in a 2024 Netflix documentary.[100] On television, Austin hosted the fifth season of WWE's reality competition Tough Enough in 2011, serving as the authoritative mentor to aspiring wrestlers in a non-scripted format that emphasized physical challenges and resilience.[101] His no-nonsense delivery, rooted in his wrestling background, aided his casting in roles portraying authoritative or intimidating figures.[99]Video games and voice work
Austin made his debut as a playable character in the 1999 video game WWF WrestleMania 2000, where he was featured with his signature finishing move, the Stone Cold Stunner.[102] In this title, developed by THQ for the Nintendo 64, Dreamcast, and PlayStation, Austin's character incorporated his real-life height of 6 feet 2 inches and weight of 252 pounds, allowing players to execute moves emblematic of his Attitude Era persona.[102] Throughout the 2000s and 2010s, Austin appeared as a playable legend in numerous WWE-licensed games, including the WWE 2K series from WWE 2K14 onward, with his most recent inclusion in WWE 2K25 released in 2025.[103] These games, published by 2K Sports, featured customizable arenas inspired by his career highlights, such as the "Austin 3:16" themed setups, and recreated entrances complete with his iconic beer truck segment and glass-shattering pyro effects.[104] In WWE 2K24's Showcase mode, players could relive Austin's WrestleMania 38 match against Kevin Owens, emphasizing his enduring digital legacy.[104] Austin served as one of the cover athletes for WWE WrestleMania XIX in 2003, alongside Kurt Angle and The Rock, highlighting his prominence during the transition from WWF to WWE branding in gaming.[105] This GameCube-exclusive title by THQ captured his role in the game's story mode, tying into real events from the pay-per-view.[105] Austin provided voice work for his own character in select WWE games, including the narrative-driven segments of WWE 2K16's Stone Cold Steve Austin Showcase mode, where he delivered lines reflecting his rebellious attitude. His vocal contributions extended to earlier titles like WWE Crush Hour (2003), a non-simulated racing game where he voiced taunts and commentary during vehicular combat matches.[106] This voice acting helped translate his larger-than-life persona into interactive entertainment beyond traditional wrestling simulations.[107]Podcasting and hosting endeavors
Following his retirement from full-time in-ring competition, Steve Austin launched The Steve Austin Show podcast in 2013, where he discussed topics ranging from professional wrestling anecdotes to personal life experiences and general interests.[108] The podcast, distributed through networks like PodcastOne, featured Austin as the host engaging in candid conversations with guests from the wrestling world and beyond, often drawing on his signature straightforward style to explore career highlights, challenges, and off-ring pursuits.[109] As of 2025, the podcast remains active, having produced over 1,200 episodes.[110] In 2014, Austin began hosting the Stone Cold Podcast as a series of live specials on the WWE Network, conducting unfiltered interviews with wrestling personalities to delve into their careers and behind-the-scenes stories. Notable episodes included a heated 2015 discussion with Paul Heyman, where the two debated industry dynamics, potential dream matches, and Heyman's role in shaping wrestling narratives, highlighting Austin's ability to provoke revealing exchanges.[111] These specials, which aired immediately after WWE programming like Raw, emphasized Austin's hosting prowess in fostering authentic dialogues without scripted constraints. Austin expanded his interview format with Broken Skull Sessions in 2019, a monthly video podcast series premiering on the WWE Network (later Peacock) that focused on in-depth, one-on-one conversations with wrestling legends and superstars.[112] The debut episode featured The Undertaker, setting a tone for raw explorations of triumphs and setbacks, followed by sessions like the 2020 installment with Ric Flair, where they unpacked Flair's 16 world title reigns, territorial rivalries, and personal excesses in a candid, storytelling-driven format.[113] Episodes typically ran over an hour, showcasing Austin's skill in drawing out reflective insights from guests in a relaxed, bar-like setting.[114] In October 2025, Austin announced plans to revive Broken Skull Sessions as an ongoing WWE platform series, signaling a return to regular in-depth wrestler interviews amid his continued involvement with the company.[74] This development builds on the series' popularity for its unvarnished access to wrestling history, with Austin teasing fresh episodes to engage fans through WWE's digital channels.[115]Business ventures and endorsements
In 2015, Steve Austin partnered with El Segundo Brewing Company to launch Broken Skull IPA, a 6.7% ABV West Coast-style India pale ale featuring Citra, Cascade, and Chinook hops, designed as a robust beer for working-class consumers.[116] The collaboration proved highly successful, expanding the Broken Skull line to include a lager in 2022 and achieving nationwide distribution, with the brand leveraging Austin's rugged persona to become a top seller for the brewery.[117] This venture marked Austin's entry into the craft beer industry, where he actively promotes the products through personal branding and limited-edition releases tied to milestones like the beer's anniversaries.[118] Austin has capitalized on his enduring popularity through merchandise deals, including apparel lines featuring his iconic "Austin 3:16" slogan and skull motifs, sold via official WWE outlets and generating ongoing royalties. In 2003, he released his autobiography, The Stone Cold Truth, a candid account of his wrestling career co-authored with J.R. Ross and Dennis Brent, which became a bestseller and contributed significantly to his post-retirement income through sales and related promotions. These products underscore how Austin's status as a cultural icon in professional wrestling continues to drive commercial appeal in consumer goods.[119] Beyond beverages and apparel, Austin has pursued off-road racing as a personal business interest, competing in events like the Best in the Desert series since around 2023, driving a Kawasaki Teryx KRX 1000 for the GFI Nevada Racing Team.[120] His involvement includes sponsorship alignments with racing organizations and serving as Grand Marshal for the 2025 BFGoodrich Tires Mint 400, reflecting a shift toward adrenaline-fueled pursuits that align with his high-energy image.[121]Personal life
Marriages and family
Austin was first married to his high school sweetheart, Kathryn Burrhus, on November 24, 1990. The couple divorced on August 7, 1992, after less than two years of marriage, and they had no children together.[122][123] His second marriage was to fellow professional wrestler and manager Jeanie Clarke, known in the ring as Lady Blossom, whom he wed on December 18, 1992. Clarke, the daughter of wrestling promoter Ole Anderson, played a key role in Austin's early career, including helping develop his iconic "Stone Cold" persona. The marriage produced three daughters: Stephanie Williams, born in 1992; Loren Williams, born in 1994; and Cassidy Williams, born in 1996. Additionally, Austin adopted Clarke's daughter Jade from a previous relationship. The couple divorced in 1999 amid personal challenges, including Clarke's struggles with addiction, which strained family dynamics.[122][123][124] Austin's third marriage was to professional wrestler and manager Debra Marshall in 2000. The couple had no children together. In 2002, Austin was arrested on a misdemeanor domestic violence charge related to an incident with Marshall; he pleaded no contest, receiving one year of probation, a $1,000 fine, and 60 hours of community service. They divorced in 2003.[122][125] Austin's fourth and current marriage is to Kristin Feres, whom he wed in a private ceremony in 2009. The couple, who met through mutual friends in the wrestling world, has maintained a low public profile regarding their relationship and does not have children together. They reside in California, prioritizing privacy away from the spotlight of Austin's wrestling fame.[122][123][126] Throughout his career, Austin's family provided support despite the demands of constant travel for wrestling tours across the United States. His Texas roots, where he was born and raised, influenced his early family life, though professional commitments often kept him separated from his daughters during their formative years. He has reflected on the sacrifices this entailed, noting that his dedication to wrestling sometimes distanced him from family responsibilities.[6][124]Health issues and philanthropy
Austin's wrestling career was marred by severe neck injuries, beginning with a botched piledriver from Owen Hart at SummerSlam on August 3, 1997, which caused a bruised spinal cord, temporary paralysis, and intense pain that left him fearing permanent mobility loss.[44] This incident, compounded by prior stinger injuries common in the sport, exacerbated his underlying spinal stenosis—a narrowing of the spinal canal that pinched nerves and led to chronic numbness and weakness.[127] The injury forced him out of action for several months, during which he underwent extensive rehabilitation, but the damage persisted, altering his in-ring style to a more brawling approach to protect his neck.[44] By late 1999, the worsening condition prompted major intervention; Austin underwent neck fusion surgery in January 2000 to remove bone spurs and alleviate spinal pressure, a procedure that sidelined him for nearly a year but allowed a partial return.[128] Despite this, cumulative trauma from the 1997 incident and ongoing stingers culminated in his diagnosis of advanced spinal stenosis, contributing to his full retirement from in-ring competition in April 2003 after a farewell match at WrestleMania XIX against The Rock, which served as a critical health turning point.[129] Post-retirement, he has managed persistent knee and back problems, including a total left knee replacement in December 2024 after years of delaying surgery due to strong supporting muscles.[130] Beyond his physical challenges, Austin has embraced philanthropy, particularly supporting children facing serious illnesses. He has granted multiple wishes through the Make-A-Wish Foundation, including personal appearances during the Attitude Era to uplift young fans with critical conditions.[131] In 2014, he partnered with artist Rob Schamberger on a WWE auction of custom artwork, directing all proceeds to Connor's Cure—a pediatric brain and spinal cancer initiative that funds research and care at children's hospitals, such as The Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh Foundation.[132] Austin's sobriety journey reflects his commitment to long-term health management following career-ending injuries. Post-retirement, he has addressed alcohol dependency through efforts to reduce intake, including a temporary alcohol-free period in 2018 for fitness goals that reinforced his healthier lifestyle; as of 2025, he continues to enjoy alcohol in moderation.[133][134]Championships and accomplishments
Major championship wins
Austin's major championship successes began in World Championship Wrestling (WCW), where he first rose to prominence as "Stunning" Steve Austin. Teaming with Brian Pillman as the Hollywood Blondes, Austin captured the WCW World Tag Team Championship on March 3, 1993, by defeating Ricky Steamboat and Shane Douglas. This marked his first major title in WCW, with the duo holding the belts for 168 days before losing them to the Arn Anderson and Paul Roma on August 18, 1993.[135] Earlier in his WCW tenure, Austin won the WCW World Television Championship twice. He first captured it on June 3, 1991, by defeating Bobby Eaton, holding the title for 329 days until losing to Barry Windham on April 27, 1992. Austin regained the championship on May 23, 1992, defeating Windham, for a 102-day reign ended by Ricky Steamboat on September 2, 1992.[136] Later that year, Austin transitioned to singles competition and won the WCW United States Championship in a two-out-of-three-falls match against Dustin Rhodes at Starrcade on December 27, 1993. He defended the title successfully against challengers including Rick Steamboat and Johnny B. Badd, maintaining the championship for a dominant 240 days until Steamboat defeated him at Clash of the Champions XXVIII on August 24, 1994. Austin briefly recaptured the title on September 18, 1994, after it was vacated but lost it immediately to Hacksaw Jim Duggan, ending that one-day reign.[137] Upon joining the World Wrestling Federation (WWF, now WWE) in late 1995, Austin's ascent continued with victories in the Intercontinental Championship division. He first won the WWF Intercontinental Championship on August 3, 1997, at SummerSlam by defeating Owen Hart in a match during which he sustained a neck injury from a piledriver; he held the title for 36 days before vacating it on September 8, 1997. Austin reclaimed the title on November 9, 1997, at Survivor Series, again defeating Hart, in a reign that lasted 29 days until he lost it to The Rock on December 8, 1997. These reigns solidified his status as a top contender amid his evolving anti-authority persona.[136] Austin also won the WWF World Tag Team Championship four times. He first teamed with Shawn Michaels to defeat Owen Hart and the British Bulldog on May 26, 1997, holding the titles for 13 days until losing them on June 8, 1997. With Dude Love, he won the titles on July 14, 1997, from the Hart Foundation, reigning for 55 days until September 7, 1997. Austin and The Undertaker captured the championships on July 26, 1998, from Kane and Mankind, for a 15-day reign ending August 10, 1998. Finally, with Triple H, they defeated The Undertaker and Kane on April 29, 2001 (aired May 21 due to tape delay), holding for 22 days until May 21, 2001.[136] Austin's pinnacle achievements came with the WWF Championship, which he won six times between 1998 and 2001, amassing a total of 529 days as champion—making him one of the most frequent holders of the promotion's premier title during the Attitude Era. Three of these victories occurred at WrestleMania, highlighting his role in some of the event's most iconic main events. His reigns often stemmed from intense feuds with WWF Chairman Vince McMahon and rivals like The Rock and Mankind, embodying his rebellious "Stone Cold" character. The details of each reign are as follows:| Reign | Date Won | Event | Defeated | Date Lost | Duration (days) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | March 29, 1998 | WrestleMania XIV | Shawn Michaels | June 28, 1998 | 91 |
| 2 | June 29, 1998 | Raw | Kane | September 27, 1998 | 90 |
| 3 | March 28, 1999 | WrestleMania XV | The Rock | May 23, 1999 | 56 |
| 4 | June 28, 1999 | Raw | The Undertaker | August 22, 1999 | 55 |
| 5 | April 1, 2001 | WrestleMania X-Seven | The Rock | September 23, 2001 | 175 |
| 6 | October 8, 2001 | Raw | Kurt Angle | December 9, 2001 | 62 |