Steve Austin, the iconic WWE Hall of Famer known as "Stone Cold," recently shared insights into his health and reflections on his wrestling legacy following knee replacement surgery. In a candid interview, Austin discussed his recovery process, his current relationship with WWE, and the evolution of professional wrestling.
Key Takeaways
- Austin is three months into recovery from knee replacement surgery and is currently at 25-30% functionality.
- He expressed relief at being out of pain after years of suffering from arthritis.
- Austin maintains a distant but positive relationship with WWE, despite not being actively involved.
- He reflected on his wrestling career, emphasizing the importance of the moments he created rather than focusing on legacy.
Health Update After Surgery
Austin revealed that he is in the early stages of recovery from his knee replacement surgery, stating, "I can’t run on this knee. So, I would say I’m 25 to 30%." He is currently focusing on bodyweight exercises as part of his rehabilitation. The former wrestler expressed gratitude for being free from the chronic pain that plagued him for years due to arthritis, saying, "The best thing about the knee is I’m out of pain."
Reflections on His Wrestling Career
In discussing his legacy, Austin was humble, stating, "I don’t like to even speak about legacies or any of that stuff anymore. Just it was what it was. I had a good time." He acknowledged the impact of his character, Stone Cold, and the memorable moments he created during his time in the ring. Austin emphasized that while he had some classic matches, many other wrestlers had equally impressive performances.
Current Relationship With WWE
Despite not being under contract with WWE, Austin clarified that there is no animosity between him and the promotion. He mentioned, "I haven’t talked to anybody that’s currently wrestling right now anymore," but noted that he is still involved in events like the upcoming WWE World experience ahead of WrestleMania 41. Austin appreciates the creative direction WWE is taking, stating, "They’re pushing the creative envelope in a whole lot of different directions."
The Evolution of Professional Wrestling
Austin also shared his thoughts on how wrestling has changed since his heyday. He noted that the business has evolved into a faster-paced environment with higher risks and more complex moves. He remarked, "The business has evolved into faster, more motion, more motion. Higher risk, thrills, chills, spills, and excitement."
He expressed understanding of the new training methods at WWE’s Performance Center, acknowledging that while the approach has changed, it is simply a reflection of the industry’s evolution. Austin stated, "If I was getting into business right now, and I was 20 years old, I would be learning this new method, and I wouldn’t have any problems with it."
New Ventures and Competitive Spirit
Outside of wrestling, Austin has ventured into the beer business and off-road racing. He proudly shared that he has been in the beer industry for nearly a decade and has found success in off-road racing, winning accolades such as rookie of the year. He described racing as a fulfilling outlet for his competitive nature, akin to his wrestling days.
In conclusion, Steve Austin continues to inspire fans with his resilience and candid reflections on his past. As he navigates his recovery and new ventures, his legacy as a wrestling icon remains firmly intact, even if he prefers not to dwell on it.
Sources
- ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin Shares His Current Relationship With Pro Wrestling, eWrestlingNews.com.
- Stone Cold Steve Austin Talks WWE, Pro Wrestling, Racing, Beer & More On 3:16 Day, Sports Illustrated.
- Steve Austin provides a health update after knee replacement surgery, whether he thinks about his legacy, his training compared to WWE Performance Center training, Pro Wrestling Dot Net.
