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| photo courtesy: arolemodel.com |
Since then, Austin has managed to show that he at least has the ability to execute his patented "Stone Cold Stunner" finisher, with Goldberg, Brock Lesnar, Roddy Piper, Carlito, The McMahons and JBL being a few recipients of the move.
Over the years, Austin has hinted of his condition being far more better than it was while he was an active wrestler. This has caused a static level of buzz concerning whether the WWE Universe would see him in the ring one more time.
However, the past couple years has been more realistic than ever. Not only is Austin in much better condition, but he has a much younger superstar that can truly test his endurance.
It has been over ten long years since Steve Austin has stepped foot in a WWE ring as a wrestler. As a result of nagging injuries—specifically his neck and knees—Austin was forced to retire from active competition after sending us off with a fantastic match at WrestleMania XIX against The Rock.
Since then, Austin has managed to show that he at least has the ability to execute his patented "Stone Cold Stunner" finisher, with Goldberg, Brock Lesnar, Roddy Piper, Carlito, The McMahons and JBL being a few recipients of the move.
Over the years, Austin has hinted of his condition being far more better than it was while he was an active wrestler. This has caused a static level of buzz concerning whether the WWE Universe would see him in the ring one more time.
However, the past couple years has been more realistic than ever. Not only is Austin in much better condition, but he has a much younger superstar that can truly test his endurance.
"Stone Cold" Steve Austin's Toughest Opponent & Returning To Fight CM Punk | Larry King Now
CM Punk.
Despite this, the stage has not been appropriately set yet. WrestleMania 28 and 29 was shrouded with the Rock and John Cena "Once" ... er... "Twice in a Lifetime" main event matches. No need for Austin to fill a supporting role to the two-year-plus feud.
Now, WrestleMania XXX is approaching, and it is by far the most anticipated pay-per-view in WWE history.
In an interview conducted by Busted Open with Dave Lagreca and Doug Mortman (via WrestlingInc.com), Austin did not hold anything back regarding an opportunity to be a part of the biggest event of the year.
Oh I'm healthy enough. My knees coming around just fine, it's better than it's ever been because I've been doing my do diligence on my rehab. I've got two new ligaments. Everything else is pain free. I'm still in shape been working out harder than I've ever worked out.
Austin also addressed his views on the possibility of a match with CM Punk, stating that it could be a great match due to Punk "[bringing] a lot to the table from a verbal standpoint with his well thought out promos, [and] the way in which he conducts his business."
Although Austin does not want to give a great deal of attention to another match, the writing is on the wall that one more match has been much more than a passing thought. Next year, Austin turns 50, so there is only so much that his body can handle. However—with the amazing ring psychology that he has—he would unquestionably deliver memorable matches even in this stage of his life.
The biggest caveat of this scenario is CM Punk's unmuddled desire to wrestle in a main event at WrestleMania, which this match would most likely prevent. Essentially, if this happens at WrestleMania XXX, something has to give—either Punk does not wrestle in the main event, or we see Punk/Austin in the main event, which would only make sense if a title was involved.
So, unfortunately—stalemate.
Would you be in favor of Austin returning at WrestleMania XXX? Sound off (civilly) below.
source: bleacherreport.com
