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According to a recent report by Fightful Select, Vince McMahon was highly invested in ensuring the triumphant return of "Stone Cold" Steve Austin to the wrestling ring for WrestleMania. Although Austin had been hesitant about returning since his retirement in 2003, McMahon played a significant role in creating the right situation for Austin's comeback.
The report states that McMahon flew himself and Drew Gulak to Austin's Texas ranch to prepare for WrestleMania. During their visit, Gulak ran drills with Austin, who called out spots while staying in character. The two reportedly had a long match at the ranch, with Gulak also working alongside McMahon.
McMahon and Gulak Prepare Austin for WrestleMania
Interestingly, a WWE higher-up commented on the situation: "The funniest thing about all of this wasn't that Vince flew out there, took Drew Gulak with him, and ensured that Austin could still go.
While he did all that to ensure Austin was good to go, he knew he was planning to wrestle himself, knew he sucked, still did it, and ended up having one of the worst matches Stunner sells of all time after." Austin's return continued at WrestleMania 38, where he worked with McMahon and current WWE United States Champion Austin Theory on Night 2.
McMahon appeared to watch Pat McAfee's victory over Theory, which led to McAfee challenging McMahon to an impromptu match. Following a brief match and McMahon pinning McAfee, Austin appeared surprised, delivering a Stunner to Theory and sharing beers with McMahon.
The segment concluded with Austin hitting McMahon with a somewhat sloppy Stunner and then celebrating with McAfee, who also received a Stunner. The extensive preparation and involvement of Vince McMahon in ensuring Austin's return demonstrates the commitment to creating memorable moments for fans at WrestleMania.
With Austin's triumphant comeback, fans were treated to a nostalgic experience, and the behind-the-scenes efforts of McMahon and Gulak played a crucial role in making it happen.
