‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin made a sensational return to the WWE ring at WrestleMania 38, defeating Kevin Owens in what was his first wrestling match in 19 years to close night one (2 April).
Fightful Select have since published a report on how the legend’s comeback came together. Owens was apparently informed of the WrestleMania 38 plans as far back as January, with WWE telling him that a full-on match had been pitched to ‘Stone Cold’, though WWE kept the bout’s existence close to its vest. Vince McMahon stressed to producers that what they were going to do to close WM 38’s first night would be decided on the day, with the promotion keen to ensure Austin’s comfort with what went down.
It is also stated that working with Austin at ‘Mania wasn’t part of Owens’ contract negotiations in late 2021. News that the former Universal Champion had re-signed with WWE broke in December, as the two parties agreed on a new deal worth a reported $2-3 million annually.
Austin also appeared on WrestleMania 38’s second night, hitting Stone Cold Stunners on Vince McMahon, Austin Theory, and Pat McAfee in the ring.
Prior to Saturday, WrestleMania 19’s defeat to The Rock was Austin’s last full-on wrestling match.