A highly anticipated matchup between CM Punk and Stone Cold Steve Austin could finally come to life, according to WWE analyst Sam Roberts. Fans have long dreamed of seeing these two iconic anti-heroes face off, and the timing might align with WrestleMania 43 next year, which will take place in Saudi Arabia. The event is expected to feature legends returning to the ring, with Austin reportedly among the candidates willing to compete for a lucrative payout.
Steve Austin’s Potential Return Sparks Debate Over Match Type
During an episode of the Notsam Wrestling podcast, Roberts discussed the possibility of Austin’s comeback and emphasized that if Steve Austin returns, it should be for a one-on-one match rather than a multi-person contest. He argued that the purity and intensity of a singles match suit Austin’s style better than a triple threat scenario, like the proposed triple-threat match involving Cody Rhodes, CM Punk, and Austin that some fans have suggested.
“I don’t know about, Cody, Punk, Austin, triple threat. There’s just something about, for me, maybe I romanticize them, but, something about big singles matches where if you’ve got Austin back for one more show, I want a singles match. Just like we got with Kevin [Owens].” – Sam Roberts, WWE Host
Roberts referred to Austin’s successful singles match with Kevin Owens at WrestleMania 38 as a benchmark for the type of confrontation fans should expect if Austin returns.
Discussion Around CM Punk vs. Rhodes and Other Possible Opponents
While the dream match remains CM Punk versus Steve Austin, Roberts also acknowledged the possibility of an alternate storyline where CM Punk faces Cody Rhodes instead. This raises the question of who then would be matched up against Austin. Several emerging stars, including Bron Breakker, have been suggested as potential opponents for the Hall of Famer. Another intriguing option is Drew McIntyre, who might approach a bout with Austin with less reverence, offering a fresh dynamic in the ring.
“We’ve gotten Kevin Owens at WrestleMania 38, and that was, I mean, unbelievable. Do we want Austin versus Punk? Is that the Austin match? Of course, that’s been the fantasy match for a long time. Would you rather have Austin-Punk or Punk-Rhodes if you could only have one of them? And if that becomes the case, then who do you put with Stone Cold Steve Austin?” – Sam Roberts, WWE Host
Significance of the Potential Match and Its Impact on WWE
Matching two of WWE’s most rebellious stars in CM Punk and Steve Austin could generate tremendous excitement among fans, revitalizing interest in WrestleMania 43 and beyond. Their shared history of challenging authority and breaking rules has left a lasting impact on WWE’s culture, making this bout more than just a match but a meeting of two eras. The announcement of WrestleMania 43 in Saudi Arabia and the country’s willingness to invest heavily in legendary talent make this showdown a strong possibility. If realized, it promises to attract worldwide attention and could redefine what a return match means for wrestling icons like Austin.
