Roman Reigns delivered an unexpected jab at Stone Cold Steve Austin during an appearance on Stephanie McMahon’s podcast, stirring attention among wrestling fans. The moment, captured in a preview clip from the “What’s Your Story” show, highlights the ongoing dynamic between two of WWE’s most iconic stars from different eras.
Roman Reigns Challenges Steve Austin’s Legacy with a Bold Comment
Roman Reigns and Stone Cold Steve Austin stand among the most influential wrestlers in WWE history, representing different generations within the sport. While Reigns has established himself as the dominant figure in today’s wrestling scene, Austin was the defining face of the Attitude Era. Despite their prominence, they have not faced each other directly in the ring, partly due to their differing timeframes.
During the promotional preview for Stephanie McMahon’s podcast, Reigns referenced what many fans identify as Austin’s trademark antics: drinking beer, gesturing offensively, and pushing boundaries. The exact intent behind Reigns’ words remains unclear since the complete context was not released, but it appears he playfully teased the Hall of Famer’s well-known persona.
Acknowledge him!☝️Get ready to see a whole new side of The OTC @WWERomanReigns this Thursday on a new #WhatsYourStory wherever you get your podcasts! @EGxo@WWE@Fanaticspic.twitter.com/uQJ1Cg12Wn
—Stephanie McMahon, WWE Executive
Paul Heyman Saw Both Reigns and Austin as Future WWE Icons
Both Roman Reigns and Steve Austin began their WWE journeys far from the spotlight, working their way through challenges before rising to superstardom. Paul Heyman, a veteran wrestling manager and promoter, has long believed in their potential to become leading figures in the industry. Reflecting on Austin’s early days during an interview with Justin Barrasso from Undisputed, Heyman emphasized Austin’s undeniable drive despite physical setbacks.
Heyman recalled that even as Austin struggled with knee problems, his relentless energy and movement inside the ring stood out. He compared Austin’s intensity to that of Brock Lesnar and Bron Breakker, two other wrestlers known for their powerful presence and velocity in the ring.
Steve already had problems with his knees. Yet, when he got into the ring early in the day and started hitting the ropes, with a velocity I’ve only seen from two other people –- one being Brock Lesnar, the other being Bron Breakker. I looked over at Jim Ross and said, ‘This is it.’ I could see he was going to be an enormous star in this industry. And I still remember Jim saying, ‘Just look at him. Of course he is.’
—Paul Heyman, WWE Hall of Famer
Despite his clear recognition of Austin’s future stardom, Heyman downplayed his own foresight, suggesting it was obvious to observe such talent early on. He applied the same conviction to Roman Reigns, indicating that others missed recognizing what Reigns brought to the table sooner.
I never wanted credit for saying so early that Steve Austin was going to be ‘The Man’ in the industry. I always thought it was to everyone else’s discredit that they didn’t see it. It’s no different now. I don’t know that I deserve credit for seeing what Roman Reigns had to offer. It’s to everyone else’s detriment that they didn’t.
—Paul Heyman, WWE Hall of Famer
The Significance of Roman Reigns’ Remarks in Wrestling’s Evolving Landscape
Roman Reigns’ sharp remark toward Steve Austin on Stephanie McMahon’s podcast signals the layered relationship between wrestling’s past and present. While both men have defined different chapters of WWE’s history, Reigns’ words suggest a readiness to assert his own position against legendary figures. This interaction highlights how current stars may engage with the legacies that shaped the industry.
Paul Heyman’s insight underscores the ongoing narrative within WWE, where new talent rises while acknowledging their predecessors. The acknowledgment that both Austin and Reigns were destined for greatness reminds fans and insiders alike that wrestling continually evolves, blending respect with rivalry.
As Stephanie McMahon’s show prepares to reveal more from Roman Reigns, viewers can expect further candid moments that explore the wrestler’s mindset and influence. Meanwhile, WWE continues to develop its roster, recently making changes in its developmental program, signaling ongoing shifts in the company’s future.
