Stone Cold Steve Austin is reportedly being considered for a significant match at WrestleMania 43, scheduled to take place in Saudi Arabia in 2027. This event marks the first time the iconic WWE showcase will be held outside North America, with Stone Cold WrestleMania 43 plans gaining attention amid a high-profile return rumored for several retired WWE legends.
The relocation of WrestleMania to the Middle East has sparked strong reactions among fans, largely due to the influence of a massive financial deal underpinning the decision. Saudi Arabia’s considerable investment is expected to impact the event’s production and participant lineup, potentially offering lucrative incentives for former WWE stars who might be persuaded to step back into the ring.
Potential Opponents Highlighted for Steve Austin’s Return
Among the wrestlers suggested for a clash with Stone Cold Steve Austin is Drew McIntyre, who represents a new generation unburdened by nostalgia, and thus provides a compelling dynamic as a heel against Austin’s iconic anti-hero persona. WWE broadcaster Sam Roberts, speaking on Notsam Wrestling, outlined possibilities for Austin’s comeback opponent, emphasizing the high anticipation surrounding such a matchup.
“I think [Steve] Austin has said on more than one occasion that he may have one more left in him. So I think we can fantasy book the idea of a Stone Cold Steve Austin match. We’ve gotten Kevin Owens at WrestleMania 38, and that was unbelievable. Do we want Austin vs. 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 can only have one of them? And if that’s the case, then who do you put with Stone Cold Steve Austin? I think by then, a year and a half from now, Bron Breakker vs. Steve Austin could get very, very interesting. You know what could be really good? Drew McIntyre and Steve Austin. The idea of Drew McIntyre being the one guy who doesn’t have this wave of nostalgia, Drew McIntyre being the one guy that’s not impressed with Stone Cold Steve Austin. Drew McIntyre is that type of heel, and if you want to build a heel against Steve Austin, who is the biggest babyface of all time, even though he’s an anti-hero. Drew McIntyre vs. Stone Cold Steve Austin feels very, very interesting to me.”
Roberts underscored that Austin’s last match was against Kevin Owens at WrestleMania 38, which was met with widespread acclaim. The prospect of Austin facing younger talent such as Bron Breakker or more established stars like Drew McIntyre offers a variety of narrative possibilities, each carrying its own appeal for longtime fans and new viewers alike.
WrestleMania 43’s Historic Shift and Financial Stakes
The decision to host WrestleMania 43 in Saudi Arabia signifies a major turning point for WWE’s flagship event. Traditionally held across venues in North America, this shift aligns with TKO’s strategic priorities and reflects WWE’s global business ambitions. Saudi Arabia’s substantial financial contribution reportedly grants it considerable influence over event details, including talent appearances.
This arrangement has reportedly opened the door for numerous WWE legends to be offered sizeable payouts should they agree to wrestle again. Alongside Stone Cold Steve Austin, names such as The Rock, The Undertaker, and Shawn Michaels are among those rumored to be in discussions for potential returns, fueling speculation about the event’s star power.
Other Recent WWE Developments to Watch
In addition to WrestleMania 43 buzz, WWE has been active with several notable updates and storylines. AJ Lee recently responded to fan reactions following her return to the company, showing the ongoing connection between WWE’s past and present stars.
Dominik Mysterio’s triumph at Worlds Collide earned him the AAA Mega Championship in addition to his WWE Intercontinental title, marking a significant milestone in his career. Meanwhile, Rey Mysterio addressed questions about his daughter Aalyah’s future within WWE, clarifying any rumors about her potential entry into professional wrestling.
Other headlines include a former 4-time WWE Champion shutting down return rumors after controversial comments, a new title match added to the NXT No Mercy card, and a WWE star expressing interest in a dream match with Rhea Ripley. Additionally, Roman Reigns may have left a lasting impact on a WWE Hall of Famer due to recent in-ring encounters.
Impact and Expectations Surrounding Stone Cold Steve Austin’s Return
Stone Cold Steve Austin’s possible comeback at WrestleMania 43 could profoundly influence the event’s reception, blending nostalgia with fresh rivalries that appeal to multiple generations of WWE audiences. As WWE balances its ties to longtime fans and activates new markets like Saudi Arabia, leveraging Austin’s legendary status can help maintain momentum amid evolving dynamics.
With major competitors like Drew McIntyre poised to face Austin, the matchup may offer one of the most compelling stories in recent WWE history. Fans and industry insiders will be watching closely as plans solidify, hoping to witness a memorable chapter in Stone Cold Steve Austin’s enduring legacy.
