Top five potential matches for 'Stone Cold' Steve Austin's WWE in-ring return

The Texas Rattlesnake last made an appearance during WrestleMania 41!

According to a new report from Fightful Select, multiple people who interacted with the legend, ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin, during WrestleMania 41 weekend stated he hinted at a potential return. Austin mentioned he “might have one more in him,” implying he wasn’t just talking about making another iconic ATV entrance.

Stone Cold last made an appearance on the second night of WrestleMania 41 in iconic fashion, driving the ATV through the ramp and around the ring, before stepping into the ring to officially announce night two’s attendance. However, his last in-ring appearance was in 2022 against Kevin Owens.

Despite ongoing rumors and speculation, the legend has yet to make his return. However, with the latest reports, a WWE in-ring return now seems possible. Let’s take a look at the top five potential matches for Austin’s in-ring return.

5. Gunther

‘The Ring General’ Gunther is the current World Heavyweight Champion who, despite competing in the modern era, has a vintage and stiff wrestling style. The Ring General is currently set to compete against WCW legend Goldberg, who will battle him for the title in his final match. Gunther will likely not say no to another historic match against a legend such as Stone Cold.

Also Read: When was Stone Cold Steve Austin’s last match in WWE?

4. Randy Orton

Randy Orton and Stone Cold, despite being two generational icons, have never crossed paths in the WWE. The Viper regularly performs on the SmackDown brand despite cruising towards fifty and has ambitions to capture his 15th World title. A potential match between Orton and Austin, where Orton’s cold precision meets Austin’s unrelenting chaos, has all the makings of a classic.

3. John Cena

The 17-time WWE World Champion John Cena is currently on his retirement tour, and is set to defend the Undisputed title for the second time this Saturday. While the two stars have never crossed paths in the WWE, Austin making his return to battle ‘heel’ Cena would be a dream matchup for fans.

Despite his anti-authority persona, Austin fighting to save pro wrestling for the fans, paired with the potential for iconic promos between the two, would make the rivalry worth it on its own.

Also Read: John Cena’s top 10 best promos in WWE history

2. Roman Reigns

A clash between two era-defining superstars is ‘The OTC’, Roman Reigns and Steve Austin had already been rumored in 2023, but the match never materialized. Reigns definitely has the aura to step inside the ring against Austin. A potential match between the two megastars definitely deserves a WrestleMania main event spot.

1. CM Punk

One of the top dream matches for WWE fans has been a clash between Stone Cold and ‘The Second City Saint’ CM Punk. Although it has rarely felt like the match would actually happen, that only makes it feel even bigger. Punk was away from the WWE for over a decade, while it seemed like Austin would never make his in-ring return.

However, now this matchup seems possible, and it should be on top of WWE’s list if the Texas Rattlesnake decides to return. Similar to John Cena, CM Punk is known for his on-mic skills; the infamous ‘pipebomb’ is a testament to that, coupled with Austin, the promo battle would likely bring the house down.

What are your dream matches and feuds for Stone Cold in the WWE? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments section.

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