I agree but I also think that the surprise element of taker being there at minimum was as equaling a pop that Austin would’ve got. People expecting stone cold just like they expected Cena and then surprise. Would’ve loved to have seen stone cold but I feel taker worked just as well.
@@cneagle87100% agree because hardcore fans that read the reports and dirt sheets expected Austin. Yes Austin and Rock tigon the ring again would have been epic and crowd would have lost it. But taker coming out was a huge surprise and crowd popped really loud. Tbh I hope they do revisit Austin and Rock to have some sort of a segment together down the line. But make it a huge surprise where no one expects it.
I was there. The moment The Rock took out Cena, myself and everyone around me expected Austin. I have it on video. But that pop when Undertaker’s music hit was legendary. We all lost it. And I think it was the best outcome because The Undertaker has a history with Reigns - Austin never did. Not to mention: it’s WrestleMania XL - you’re celebrating the 40th anniversary, The Undertaker IS WrestleMania.
At the time i didnt think much of it but looking back now getting the visual of Austin and Rock having a stare down in the middle in the ring, then a fist fight then a stunner would have been one of the biggest moments in WM history
Mark was approached with the potential idea on Tuesday that week, but nothing was final. He was going to be there anyways for his show, and had a suite… he got the text to go, about an hour before the match, and left the suite…people are taking shots at Steve for not doing it, but they need to realize how budgeting works in big business… yeah, they have the money,,, but they work within a budget. That whole storyline was a pivot that was created on the fly, after the budget and WM planning had already been finalized. So they were still working within the budget they had in place…Steve wasn’t scheduled to be there for anything in the first place,, so they can’t adjust finances that aren’t already there, they would have to add more, or re-allocate money from another spot in the budget, taking away from that other spot. Mark was already going to be there, and everyone know that Mark will do anything he is capable of doing to help the WWE. You can’t expect someone that’s not even there, to agree to fly in and do a spot at that level, for free. Especially someone with the credentials as Steve. The entire production of that match was brilliantly done, especially since it was planned out and executed in real time, with resources they had available
I’m glad it was Undertaker. Everyone and their mother was expecting Austin. Undertaker gave the match some good shock value. I do wish he had been in his dead man outfit though.
@MrAbzpd yea. It was lame. I've seen so many "he's the locker room leader" (aka JOBBER) he was the best pick. Eh? This was supposed to be the biggest WM EVER. everyone knows austin/rock was the biggest feud of the attitude era. Taker/rock is barely memorable.
To be honest, Austin coming out to help Mankind win the title was a bit overshadowing to Mick’s victory. So he could’ve done it to Cody also. Money just wasn’t right.
Nash is about the most real wrestler from that era doing a podcast today, and that's why I like this podcast so much. Thanks for doing what you do Kev.
I think Undertaker was better than Austin for this. Sure, would've been nice to pay off the loading truck foreshadowing. But everyone we got that came out to help level out The Bloodline had previously been defeated by Roman Reigns. So it was his like his past came back to avenge against him. Very similar to everyone Thanos defeated coming back to avenge against Thanos in Endgame (spoilers).
Rock was massively over by mid 99 when Austin was still there and hadn’t gone away for surgery. He was getting insane pops at that time. True that austin going away gave him a bit more space to shine as top guy tho
@@bb-gc2txnot overrated. As Nash said, *lightning in a bottle,* essentially Conor McGregor in mma terms. Just with longer term significance! I remember Austin vs rocky WM17, two baby faces, I was rooting for Steve but I can tell the rock was getting more cheers than Steve. I couldn’t believe that..
@@shamelessplug06Every time someone puts Austin above Rock, dozens of troll accounts just happen to find the video. They're fanatically pro-Dwayne and love to hate on Stone Cold, lmao. Check out the other comment I've replied to, claiming that Rock was the biggest WWF star in 1999 (obviously nonsense).
As much as I wanted to see Austin too, I think Undertaker worked better because the way the lights went out and Undertaker disappeared and left just Roman, Cody, and Seth in the ring, was the perfect setup for the upcoming chair spot. If it were Austin, he would have had to make an exit somehow and it would have taken away attention from the ring.
Austin did not want his character used in that confusion. Had nothing to do with money. There were just too many moving parts, didn't want two seconds buried in the sizzle.
Too late.. Austin is 59. When is he going to have another chance to interrupt the rock again at mania.. the stakes will never be as high as it was at WM40. Roman was 4 years as champ. He wasted a big opportunity by getting too greedy for money. He's already looking old and losing his mobility
I would include Taker, HHH in that era with Stone cold, rock and mankind. Sure stone cold would have been next level if he showed up, but Taker worked just as well they have a lot of history also since ministry of darkness vs the corporation.
Imagine they re-run the 98 rumble entry? Glass shatters, the bloodline face up to the entrance, Austin comes through the crowd, slides in and clears house. Guess who was in the ring that night in ‘98? Rock.
@@gman2015z obviously he doesn't need it but it would have been amazing and only helped him even more. I haven't seen a raw or pay per view where there wasn't a Austin 316 shirt in the crowd
@@gman2015z Taker doesn't "need" it either lmao. It's about making a memorable moment and making sense. Steve should've been there, missed opportunity for both parties.
@@AxeDharme was it a missed opportunity for Steve? Maybe for the fans, who wanted to see Steve, but IF what Meltzer says is true (which it probably isn't), if Steve was to be part of it for that match, for whatever reason he turned it down or they didn't come to an agreement, and I have to say, at 60 years old and all that Austin has done in the business and life, and coming back two years ago for a match, I doubt he looks at it as a missed opportunity. If he truly wanted to be there, he would have, but he had one of the best careers with some of the most iconic moments of all time. I doubt he cares that he missed this years Mania.
It makes more sense to have the undertaker do it and save Steve for next year like Kevin said due to the history because this rock story isn’t over yet. Save the best for last
Austin and the insanity that would have exploded from that crowd when the glass shattered would have been the coolest option to see in terms of entertainment and excitement on it own. But I am one of those who thinks it was probably better for it to be Undertaker because it was still a cool surprise that got a big reaction, the blackout was a cool way to do it, Taker and the locker room leader reputation kinda made sense for him to be in that spot and felt somewhat like an endorsement of Cody as the champion moving forward, and it feels like if it was stone cold and he was confronting Rock it would’ve overshadowed the match and the ending moment and people would’ve immediately latched on to the chance to get another match between them. I think moving to Cody as champion to end that never ending title reign that you don’t risk overshadowing all that investment. So Taker worked for me for it.
Austin would have distracted, just look at how much people are going nuts hearing may have been him. Undertaker was perfect cause character fits in and out. Austin, people would be distracted from final moments of Codys sequence looking for Austin, wanting a beer bash, hear him talk, etc. I wouldnt be surprised if he was smart enough to know this to turn it down. Honestly think its cause he doesnt want to be used along side Rock, he wants to be the spotlighted guy, and saying deservingly not as ego against him. Yes he would have had the moment stunning Rock, but Mania was still centered on Cody and The Rock. Played out fine. Now if wanted they can do something down the line with more preplanning if involving Austin with Rock,.
If stone cold came out with the disturbed theme. The fans would've had an aneurysm. Reminds me of when Austin returned on Raw to take out the alliance and JR losing his mind. Pure gold
I think Taker made more sense in regard to the story. Reigns basically retired him & that put him on the path to the tribal chief. There was a theme of Reigns’ obsession (Rollins etc) costing him.
The rock was the biggest star in the business for the year of 1999. Wwf had 2 juggernauts in rock and Austin, 3 with Vince Mcmahon. Having said that, WWE should of paid Austin whatever number he wanted to be the one that takes out Rock. That moment is so much bigger because it makes sense and lives forever as an all time great reaction/moment
Every time someone puts Austin above Rock, dozens of pro-Dwayne troll accounts descend upon the video 😂🤣 2000 was Rock's year - 1998 and 1999 were Stone Cold's. Everyone knows this.. it's common knowledge. Rock was in the mid-card with Billy Gunn in the summer of '99, lmao.
@@BradAaronTaylor it's statements that get repeated and repeated that get made into "common knowledge" but the facts and the ratings figures show the reality. Based on segment ratings and the number of viewers who switched channels during the Monday night wars Austin was no1 in 1998 in the WWF, although he was 2nd to Hogan overall. In 1999 the Rock was no1, despite his placement on the card being in the mid card against Mr ass or part of the Rock and Sock connection, the rock consistently had the highest rated segments and swing of viewers changing over from nitro. Austin was actually 3rd behind Vince Mcmahon. The Rock had a ridiculous run that started in Nov 98. I'm not putting Austin down, he was a behemouth that caught and surpassed WCW but the WWF had three Juggernsughts in Austin, Mcmahon and Rock. The WCW had their own in the NWO/Hogan specifically as well as Goldberg who was absolutely huge draw. In a head to head comparison between between Austin and Goldberg over a 12 month between 98 and 99 Goldberg destroyed Austin. He was that big. Conversely, the rock has a favourable head to head with Goldberg over the same period.
Steve Austin would’ve been perfect because he was The Rock’s greatest legendary rival, BUT the Undertaker is so legendary and so Iconic that it still worked the same way. No one really lost.
Either way Austin missed out on a pay day and a huge WrestleMania moment with The Rock, his loss, Kevin's right, "it was The Undertaker dressed as Mark with a beanie" still a big moment but Austin would've been better
Austin definitely missed out on a huge WrestleMania moment with The Rock their feud is unforgettable and would've been epic to see them one last time in the ring, probably won't get another opportunity, John Cena and Undertaker came out for the fans they're both worth millions Austin should've made an appearance
undertaker’s pop was bigger. if you listen to other POV’s of what fans receded like the different angles. everyone was whispering to themselves austin is showing up!! but when undertakers sound came… jaws dropped and giant OMGS… a surprise element… austin would have been okay
@@JavierAliagaOfficial well, you can't say that, cause it didn't happen. Whether or not they were expecting it or not, no one was sure it would happen, and in my opinion (which is all we have), if Steve showed up, I do think the crown would have went absolutely apeshit, even more than they did for Taker. Again, my opinion only, and of course all speculation.
@@JavierAliagaOfficial What do you mean bigger? you don't know what the reaction to Austin would have been like. Austin was always more over than Taker and he and Rock are immortal enemies. It's like there's a difference between DDP stopping Ric Flair instead of Sting.
As much as I expected/wanted to hear the glass shatter and Austin comes out and takes out his greatest nemesis besides Vince so Cody could finish his story.I must say I liked the undertaker but I didn't see the tie in with all the story's that came to an end.But if there was going to be anyone that could show who the real final boss is, especially at mania its The Undertaker.
Steve would have been too massive, the staredown with the rock, 3 wrestlemania main events with each other, the building would have blew up. But it would have got all the spotlight over codys win. Maybe steve knew it would have took away from the cody match.
Love Taker but Imagine if, Steve's entrance is delayed after Seth's spot, the crowd settle, Austin chants stop. Rock and Roman start whaling on cody for 5 mins, bust him open give him a huge beat down. Then we hear the glass shatter. Would have been an unbelievable moment
I don't understand why they didn't. It would have been perfect in terms of going down the memory lane with these guys. They could have made it work even with cena in the mix. Just add Austin and he and Rock go at it for Minutes and Taker ends both of them.
Listen, Steve would’ve been incredible and the pop would’ve been deafening. No doubt. But the connection with the undertaker, Roman, and Paul make me think he’s the better choice. The fact that a Paul Heyman guy (Brock lesnar) broke his streak. It’s poetic that undertaker had a part in breaking the latest Paul Heyman guys (Roman) monumental streak. It came full circle, and I like that story better personally, than just a classic nostalgia pop
Taker fits the story better, but Austin had more history with the Rock and was the face of his generation like Cena was the face of his generation. Since Cody is being pushed as the face of this current generation, Austin would have worked perfectly.
@@GameTime-yj6qv they definitely had more history together, I feel like either way they went would’ve been “perfect” and the pop would be monumental. I just personally like the tie in with taker. Especially since Roman also beat taker at mania 3 years (I think) after Brock. Either way, it was the biggest pop of the weekend!
@@jasonking4753 definitely it was full circle and great storytelling. Also loved the element of Roman getting some payback on Seth for turning on him and ending the Shield 10 years earlier. Although that ended up costing him the titlem Storytelling that ties things together is awesome.
@@GameTime-yj6qv great storytelling for sure! Oh yeah that was really cool to see Seth being the literal “shield” with Seth knowing that Roman would focus his attention on him instead of Cody in the name of pride and revenge. Such a brilliant addition to the story they were telling us. Couldn’t agree more that stories that link together like that are awesome! About time we got something that great!
The one failing was not having Taker come out in the retro garb (he wants to sell podcast shirts n hoodies, so I understand why). Really lean into the "Ghost of Wrestlemania" gimmick. Was fine and fun tho
As a long time Taker fan I felt his look (at WMXL) didn't quite fit with that spot. Instead he should have come down on his bike (similar to his Judgement Day 2000 return).
I kinda feel like if McMahon was running the show still, whatever coin Austin wanted, he would’ve paid out. But now that there’s some new cats involved, I’d almost bet the offer they put out was far below the expected number for a mega star the caliber that Austin is.
Undertaker was awesome and always will be just feel it would have made more sense if it was Austin given his history with the Rock and if you hear that glass break the place would have exploded.
i think it was also somewhat political on steve's part. he done run ins for free according to stories he's told. i don't think he wanted cody to become too big a star and outshine his own recent mania match
The pop when that dong hit was crazy .. my only problem was him dressed regular like he was put their last min ! Nash is right it was like the rock turned and saw Mark not the undertaker
I think there’s more to this than simply money and definitely not Vince Russo’s warped theory of the spotlight wasn’t going to he solely on him and character protector shit, for Christ sake he came out with Mic foley and HBK at WrestleMania 32 to fight off Shesmus and Del Rio 🤣 on top of other numerous times he’s been special ref, etc While I would’ve loved Austin I think Undertaker made more sense storyline wise. He has always been the locker room leader and wasn’t going to let the bloodline screw over Cody
I think Steve seen or heard what Dwayne was receiving for Wrestlemania appearance. He found what they offered him as an insult. Let's say the offered Steve $150,000 he probably said no. I just wish John and Rock brawled a little not just a Rock bottom. I think Undertaker should have gave the Rock a tombstone. I wonder if Undertaker said no then how would have the match ended.
Its hard to complain about Undertaker showing up, because it did make sense. But I would have preferred Austin given his history with The Rock and that he was the face of his generation like Cena was the face of his. The crowd pop would have been insane if that glass would have shattered and Stone Cold came out.
@heyyo7708 he didn't say that. Austin didn't want john cena or other wrestlers coming out. He wanted the moment for himself and on top of that more money. 👎🏽
I think if Austin would have came out it would have taken away from everything. No matter how happy we would have all been about Cody, the only think people would talk about is Austin returning.
The only thing that would’ve made Wrestlemania XL even better is if Dustin came out of nowhere to rescue Cody and help him win the Belt that their Father was never able to obtain.
Stone Cold and The Rock have a longer history like Kevin Nash said. The have the biggest sold out rivalries in WrestleMania history... It would have made sense seeing The Rock is calling himself The Final Boss because he He own shares in WWE. Austin is against authority that is on a power trip.
Taker should have been the first run in (Jey Uso's spot) chokeslam off the stage. Austin and Rock for the last run in. They both deserved to be there. I think Hogan should have been involved somehow, even a very small role. 40 years of Mania and no Austin or Hogan come on.
the texts nash mentioned that austin sent him doesn’t make me think austin ever had any plans of going to mania. sounds like meltzer is making up bs again
I think Taker worked better because Austin would’ve needed 2 full minutes to walk down to the ring. You could counter argue an ATV in there but now it’s a clown car match. Taker was just right.
I thought it was obvious that Taker was a last minute fill-in since he didn't have his gear. I wrote in live stream chat that everyone wanted to hear the glass shatter but got the bells instead, which was still okay.
I like what Nash said at end. And its true .Had wcw won the war. Noway they are having wwf guys going over their's. Its just how it goes. Look what wcw did with one of the ECW champions. Made the guy a joke .
steve austin would've made so much more sense and imagine the arena if that glass shattered. that would've been the loudest pop in the history of the business
Taker's spot was better than Austin's would have been because he has more connection with the modern fans and Wrestlemania belongs to Taker. Austin running to the ring or coming out of the crowd would not have been better than the thing with the lights and Taker. For that era it is Rock-Austin- HHH then maybe Mankind and Taker. Triple H being the consummate heel allowed Rock and Austin to bounce back and forth between face and heel. Any triple h face run was short lived and inferior to his heel game.
Austin would of made more sense because their 1st wrestlemania main event was in philly at for 15 the rivalry was longer was longer I would of paid austin
God the building would’ve collapsed if the glass breaks and Austin stunned Rock. 😢
I agree but I also think that the surprise element of taker being there at minimum was as equaling a pop that Austin would’ve got. People expecting stone cold just like they expected Cena and then surprise. Would’ve loved to have seen stone cold but I feel taker worked just as well.
@@cneagle87100% agree because hardcore fans that read the reports and dirt sheets expected Austin. Yes Austin and Rock tigon the ring again would have been epic and crowd would have lost it. But taker coming out was a huge surprise and crowd popped really loud. Tbh I hope they do revisit Austin and Rock to have some sort of a segment together down the line. But make it a huge surprise where no one expects it.
@@cneagle87 they could’ve could’ve found a spot in the finish somewhere for taker but that stare down between Austin and Rock makes way more sense.
I was there.
The moment The Rock took out Cena, myself and everyone around me expected Austin. I have it on video. But that pop when Undertaker’s music hit was legendary. We all lost it. And I think it was the best outcome because The Undertaker has a history with Reigns - Austin never did. Not to mention: it’s WrestleMania XL - you’re celebrating the 40th anniversary, The Undertaker IS WrestleMania.
@@hollywoodmkx that’s cool. but if there a poll between rock taking a chokeslam or a stunner. I think the stunner takes it
Taker black out entrance worked so good tho
At the time i didnt think much of it but looking back now getting the visual of Austin and Rock having a stare down in the middle in the ring, then a fist fight then a stunner would have been one of the biggest moments in WM history
Kevin’s looking incredibly healthy here. Good to see. Especially the loss he’s suffered.
undertaker worked for me because he was the locker room leader who always does what's right
30% of the fans who filled that stadium probably knows that
@@Lemont5236 taker got the biggest pop of the night, bigger than cena, bigger than cody's 3 count. it worked for a lot of people
@@voiceinjectInternet wrestling fans just like to ignore reality it seems, idk why they enjoy being so negative
you said that in every talkbacks and it's stupid
He was also involved with Roman Reigns
Saw nash vs taker wrestlemania 12. Amazing then got a photo at the after party buffet
I feel like Taker should have been in costume. Especially if you’re going to make him do the teleport gimmick
Yep
I feel the same.. He did it for the Saudi football match ffs
Same. He easily could have worn his usual attire including trenchcoat and hat.
@@GameTime-yj6qv it was lazy
They’re older now, they want to get in and get out
Mark was approached with the potential idea on Tuesday that week, but nothing was final. He was going to be there anyways for his show, and had a suite… he got the text to go, about an hour before the match, and left the suite…people are taking shots at Steve for not doing it, but they need to realize how budgeting works in big business… yeah, they have the money,,, but they work within a budget. That whole storyline was a pivot that was created on the fly, after the budget and WM planning had already been finalized. So they were still working within the budget they had in place…Steve wasn’t scheduled to be there for anything in the first place,, so they can’t adjust finances that aren’t already there, they would have to add more, or re-allocate money from another spot in the budget, taking away from that other spot. Mark was already going to be there, and everyone know that Mark will do anything he is capable of doing to help the WWE. You can’t expect someone that’s not even there, to agree to fly in and do a spot at that level, for free. Especially someone with the credentials as Steve. The entire production of that match was brilliantly done, especially since it was planned out and executed in real time, with resources they had available
I’m glad it was Undertaker. Everyone and their mother was expecting Austin. Undertaker gave the match some good shock value. I do wish he had been in his dead man outfit though.
No not really when that DONG went off my first reaction was oh not Steve that’s lame
Well I don’t care about you, I’m talking about the audience. They popped huge and were genuinely shocked. Added to the moment
@MrAbzpd yea. It was lame. I've seen so many "he's the locker room leader" (aka JOBBER) he was the best pick. Eh? This was supposed to be the biggest WM EVER. everyone knows austin/rock was the biggest feud of the attitude era. Taker/rock is barely memorable.
Steve knows the business. It would have overshadowed what Cody would have done. Taker was the right choice.
Steve don’t care about overshadowing Cody 😂😂they couldn’t reach a financial agreement did you not hear. Show me the money
@@anon2414 Austin isn't going to be a part of a "nostalgia run-in".
@@ts9332Huh? He did a nostalgia main event two years ago that he promoted with one taped vignette.
To be honest, Austin coming out to help Mankind win the title was a bit overshadowing to Mick’s victory. So he could’ve done it to Cody also. Money just wasn’t right.
Taker wasnt even there. Listen to Nash, that was Taker in a beanie and hoody. It didn't sell. Mark doing taker didnt sell.
Look at it this way, undertaker has always been the locker room leader thus the real final boss which is why taker looked furious at rocks decisions.
Nash is about the most real wrestler from that era doing a podcast today, and that's why I like this podcast so much. Thanks for doing what you do Kev.
I think Undertaker was better than Austin for this. Sure, would've been nice to pay off the loading truck foreshadowing. But everyone we got that came out to help level out The Bloodline had previously been defeated by Roman Reigns. So it was his like his past came back to avenge against him. Very similar to everyone Thanos defeated coming back to avenge against Thanos in Endgame (spoilers).
Thank you for saying mankind
My god people forget HHH in the attitude era I mean come on
Kevin has an underrated mind for the wrestling biz
Steve wouldve been cooler, but it might have been too much and taken away from the actual match.
Undertaker was still awesome.
No it wouldn't have. He would've just evened the field by attacking The Rock
Roman would've still been taken by Cody.
Rock was massively over by mid 99 when Austin was still there and hadn’t gone away for surgery. He was getting insane pops at that time. True that austin going away gave him a bit more space to shine as top guy tho
austins run was short and overrated
@@bb-gc2txnot overrated. As Nash said, *lightning in a bottle,* essentially Conor McGregor in mma terms. Just with longer term significance! I remember Austin vs rocky WM17, two baby faces, I was rooting for Steve but I can tell the rock was getting more cheers than Steve. I couldn’t believe that..
@@bb-gc2tx casual fan spotted. Pandemic Roman fan I assume.
@@shamelessplug06Every time someone puts Austin above Rock, dozens of troll accounts just happen to find the video. They're fanatically pro-Dwayne and love to hate on Stone Cold, lmao. Check out the other comment I've replied to, claiming that Rock was the biggest WWF star in 1999 (obviously nonsense).
@@BradAaronTaylor most of them probably only watched Rock cause of Fast and The Furious and Moana.
As much as I wanted to see Austin too, I think Undertaker worked better because the way the lights went out and Undertaker disappeared and left just Roman, Cody, and Seth in the ring, was the perfect setup for the upcoming chair spot. If it were Austin, he would have had to make an exit somehow and it would have taken away attention from the ring.
Austin did not want his character used in that confusion. Had nothing to do with money. There were just too many moving parts, didn't want two seconds buried in the sizzle.
If the Rock and Cody are still working together then we’ll probably see Austin in the future. Taker was a great surprise to the match
Too late.. Austin is 59. When is he going to have another chance to interrupt the rock again at mania.. the stakes will never be as high as it was at WM40. Roman was 4 years as champ. He wasted a big opportunity by getting too greedy for money. He's already looking old and losing his mobility
Imagine quoting Meltzer
I love Undertaker and he got the ovation he deserved.
Austin's would have been 5x bigger.
I would include Taker, HHH in that era with Stone cold, rock and mankind. Sure stone cold would have been next level if he showed up, but Taker worked just as well they have a lot of history also since ministry of darkness vs the corporation.
Imagine they re-run the 98 rumble entry? Glass shatters, the bloodline face up to the entrance, Austin comes through the crowd, slides in and clears house.
Guess who was in the ring that night in ‘98? Rock.
Yeah that Austin pop when he hit rock with the chair to help mankind win the title was insane probably loudest pops I ever heard
Sad Steve didn't show up. He missed a great opportunity. The publicity he would have gotten after 🙌🙌
No the wwe missed an opportunity.... pay the man... dueche
Austin is a legend n doesn’t need all that.
@@gman2015z obviously he doesn't need it but it would have been amazing and only helped him even more. I haven't seen a raw or pay per view where there wasn't a Austin 316 shirt in the crowd
@@gman2015z
Taker doesn't "need" it either lmao. It's about making a memorable moment and making sense.
Steve should've been there, missed opportunity for both parties.
@@AxeDharme was it a missed opportunity for Steve? Maybe for the fans, who wanted to see Steve, but IF what Meltzer says is true (which it probably isn't), if Steve was to be part of it for that match, for whatever reason he turned it down or they didn't come to an agreement, and I have to say, at 60 years old and all that Austin has done in the business and life, and coming back two years ago for a match, I doubt he looks at it as a missed opportunity. If he truly wanted to be there, he would have, but he had one of the best careers with some of the most iconic moments of all time. I doubt he cares that he missed this years Mania.
It makes more sense to have the undertaker do it and save Steve for next year like Kevin said due to the history because this rock story isn’t over yet. Save the best for last
Austin and the insanity that would have exploded from that crowd when the glass shattered would have been the coolest option to see in terms of entertainment and excitement on it own. But I am one of those who thinks it was probably better for it to be Undertaker because it was still a cool surprise that got a big reaction, the blackout was a cool way to do it, Taker and the locker room leader reputation kinda made sense for him to be in that spot and felt somewhat like an endorsement of Cody as the champion moving forward, and it feels like if it was stone cold and he was confronting Rock it would’ve overshadowed the match and the ending moment and people would’ve immediately latched on to the chance to get another match between them. I think moving to Cody as champion to end that never ending title reign that you don’t risk overshadowing all that investment. So Taker worked for me for it.
Austin would have distracted, just look at how much people are going nuts hearing may have been him. Undertaker was perfect cause character fits in and out. Austin, people would be distracted from final moments of Codys sequence looking for Austin, wanting a beer bash, hear him talk, etc. I wouldnt be surprised if he was smart enough to know this to turn it down. Honestly think its cause he doesnt want to be used along side Rock, he wants to be the spotlighted guy, and saying deservingly not as ego against him. Yes he would have had the moment stunning Rock, but Mania was still centered on Cody and The Rock. Played out fine. Now if wanted they can do something down the line with more preplanning if involving Austin with Rock,.
I agree save that moment between those two another time. Hopefully sooner rather than later before they too old lol
Let's not act Steve hasn't stolen something before.
If stone cold came out with the disturbed theme. The fans would've had an aneurysm. Reminds me of when Austin returned on Raw to take out the alliance and JR losing his mind. Pure gold
I think Taker made more sense in regard to the story. Reigns basically retired him & that put him on the path to the tribal chief. There was a theme of Reigns’ obsession (Rollins etc) costing him.
It wouldnt have taken away anything. We only needed one stunner.
Some people still believe Meltzer , even though most of the stuff he says nowadays ends up being wrong !
Glass vs Gong....LET THE WAR BEGIN!!!
Steve was the #1 choice there, no questions asked.
Austin wanted to be able to market BSR beer more than they were willing as to not take away from Cody’s moment. Plain and simple
Do more Little Iron Shiek!!!!
The rock was the biggest star in the business for the year of 1999. Wwf had 2 juggernauts in rock and Austin, 3 with Vince Mcmahon. Having said that, WWE should of paid Austin whatever number he wanted to be the one that takes out Rock. That moment is so much bigger because it makes sense and lives forever as an all time great reaction/moment
Every time someone puts Austin above Rock, dozens of pro-Dwayne troll accounts descend upon the video 😂🤣
2000 was Rock's year - 1998 and 1999 were Stone Cold's. Everyone knows this.. it's common knowledge. Rock was in the mid-card with Billy Gunn in the summer of '99, lmao.
@@BradAaronTaylor it's statements that get repeated and repeated that get made into "common knowledge" but the facts and the ratings figures show the reality. Based on segment ratings and the number of viewers who switched channels during the Monday night wars Austin was no1 in 1998 in the WWF, although he was 2nd to Hogan overall. In 1999 the Rock was no1, despite his placement on the card being in the mid card against Mr ass or part of the Rock and Sock connection, the rock consistently had the highest rated segments and swing of viewers changing over from nitro. Austin was actually 3rd behind Vince Mcmahon. The Rock had a ridiculous run that started in Nov 98. I'm not putting Austin down, he was a behemouth that caught and surpassed WCW but the WWF had three Juggernsughts in Austin, Mcmahon and Rock. The WCW had their own in the NWO/Hogan specifically as well as Goldberg who was absolutely huge draw. In a head to head comparison between between Austin and Goldberg over a 12 month between 98 and 99 Goldberg destroyed Austin. He was that big. Conversely, the rock has a favourable head to head with Goldberg over the same period.
@@retroshane8844Drivel 😂🤣😭
Hence why you don't even refer to any sources - let alone provide them.
@@BradAaronTaylor it's the TV ratings, all publically available if you want to educate yourself.
@@retroshane8844 Is this on the same website as bigfoot, flat earth and David Icke?
Steve Austin would’ve been perfect because he was The Rock’s greatest legendary rival, BUT the Undertaker is so legendary and so Iconic that it still worked the same way. No one really lost.
I don't know why anyone isn't talking about dold dust making a return and helping. That would have been amazing.
Either way Austin missed out on a pay day and a huge WrestleMania moment with The Rock, his loss, Kevin's right, "it was The Undertaker dressed as Mark with a beanie" still a big moment but Austin would've been better
Is it true?
Austin is 60 years old, has all the money he's ever going to need and is enjoying his life. He didn't miss out on anything.
Austin definitely missed out on a huge WrestleMania moment with The Rock their feud is unforgettable and would've been epic to see them one last time in the ring, probably won't get another opportunity, John Cena and Undertaker came out for the fans they're both worth millions Austin should've made an appearance
Imagine hearing the glass shattering, the place would have exploded.
undertaker’s pop was bigger. if you listen to other POV’s of what fans receded like the different angles. everyone was whispering to themselves austin is showing up!! but when undertakers sound came… jaws dropped and giant OMGS… a surprise element… austin would have been okay
@@JavierAliagaOfficial well, you can't say that, cause it didn't happen. Whether or not they were expecting it or not, no one was sure it would happen, and in my opinion (which is all we have), if Steve showed up, I do think the crown would have went absolutely apeshit, even more than they did for Taker. Again, my opinion only, and of course all speculation.
We had a guy strip his shirt off and start spinning it around his head as soon as the gong hit lol
@@JavierAliagaOfficial What do you mean bigger? you don't know what the reaction to Austin would have been like. Austin was always more over than Taker and he and Rock are immortal enemies. It's like there's a difference between DDP stopping Ric Flair instead of Sting.
As much as I expected/wanted to hear the glass shatter and Austin comes out and takes out his greatest nemesis besides Vince so Cody could finish his story.I must say I liked the undertaker but I didn't see the tie in with all the story's that came to an end.But if there was going to be anyone that could show who the real final boss is, especially at mania its The Undertaker.
Steve would have been too massive, the staredown with the rock, 3 wrestlemania main events with each other, the building would have blew up. But it would have got all the spotlight over codys win. Maybe steve knew it would have took away from the cody match.
4:44 i would like to see steve react to this....not a chance nwo knocked either, "what?" Or 3:16 ....
Sean Oliver just so cavalierly says that The Rock, Austin, and Mankind were the stars of their era like Undertaker wasn't the guy who beat them a lot.
Undertaker and Kane were just behind them let’s be real
It shouldn’t have been either! It should have been Dustin!
Steve made more sense. Not too many Austin/Taker matches that come close to the Rock/Austin rivalry
Love Taker but Imagine if, Steve's entrance is delayed after Seth's spot, the crowd settle, Austin chants stop. Rock and Roman start whaling on cody for 5 mins, bust him open give him a huge beat down. Then we hear the glass shatter. Would have been an unbelievable moment
I don't understand why they didn't. It would have been perfect in terms of going down the memory lane with these guys. They could have made it work even with cena in the mix. Just add Austin and he and Rock go at it for Minutes and Taker ends both of them.
Glad it was Taker.
Seeing the Undertaker show up was amazing. But it would have been nice to see the Rock over sell a stunner one more time lol
Listen, Steve would’ve been incredible and the pop would’ve been deafening. No doubt. But the connection with the undertaker, Roman, and Paul make me think he’s the better choice. The fact that a Paul Heyman guy (Brock lesnar) broke his streak. It’s poetic that undertaker had a part in breaking the latest Paul Heyman guys (Roman) monumental streak. It came full circle, and I like that story better personally, than just a classic nostalgia pop
Taker fits the story better, but Austin had more history with the Rock and was the face of his generation like Cena was the face of his generation. Since Cody is being pushed as the face of this current generation, Austin would have worked perfectly.
@@GameTime-yj6qv they definitely had more history together, I feel like either way they went would’ve been “perfect” and the pop would be monumental. I just personally like the tie in with taker. Especially since Roman also beat taker at mania 3 years (I think) after Brock. Either way, it was the biggest pop of the weekend!
@@jasonking4753 definitely it was full circle and great storytelling. Also loved the element of Roman getting some payback on Seth for turning on him and ending the Shield 10 years earlier. Although that ended up costing him the titlem Storytelling that ties things together is awesome.
@@GameTime-yj6qv great storytelling for sure! Oh yeah that was really cool to see Seth being the literal “shield” with Seth knowing that Roman would focus his attention on him instead of Cody in the name of pride and revenge. Such a brilliant addition to the story they were telling us. Couldn’t agree more that stories that link together like that are awesome! About time we got something that great!
The one failing was not having Taker come out in the retro garb (he wants to sell podcast shirts n hoodies, so I understand why). Really lean into the "Ghost of Wrestlemania" gimmick. Was fine and fun tho
Apparently he found out day of so that would explain the outfit. I didn’t mind it because it’s the undertaker everyone sees now
I totallyagree.
I thought Taker made a little more sense because he actually has history with Roman as well. Also Taker is synonymous with wrestlemania
The ghost of wrestlemania
I was hoping to see Taker in the 97 getup, not the beanie and hoodie, but whatever I guess
As a long time Taker fan I felt his look (at WMXL) didn't quite fit with that spot. Instead he should have come down on his bike (similar to his Judgement Day 2000 return).
No the song hit and lights going out is always way better
If it was Austin that would’ve beeen insaneeee
I think Taker was better choice, he is the guy who always set things right on SMackDown back in the day.
Listen to this podcast at 1.5x speed. Lifes too short
I kinda feel like if McMahon was running the show still, whatever coin Austin wanted, he would’ve paid out. But now that there’s some new cats involved, I’d almost bet the offer they put out was far below the expected number for a mega star the caliber that Austin is.
Undertaker was awesome and always will be just feel it would have made more sense if it was Austin given his history with the Rock and if you hear that glass break the place would have exploded.
i think it was also somewhat political on steve's part. he done run ins for free according to stories he's told. i don't think he wanted cody to become too big a star and outshine his own recent mania match
No matter how good anything was nothing ever is going to be better than Stone Cold hitting the ring.
Steve didn’t want to take away from Cody’s moment it has nothing to do with money
The pop when that dong hit was crazy .. my only problem was him dressed regular like he was put their last min ! Nash is right it was like the rock turned and saw Mark not the undertaker
I think there’s more to this than simply money and definitely not Vince Russo’s warped theory of the spotlight wasn’t going to he solely on him and character protector shit, for Christ sake he came out with Mic foley and HBK at WrestleMania 32 to fight off Shesmus and Del Rio 🤣 on top of other numerous times he’s been special ref, etc
While I would’ve loved Austin I think Undertaker made more sense storyline wise. He has always been the locker room leader and wasn’t going to let the bloodline screw over Cody
The difference is simple there is no Vince to make the call! I’m sure if Vince was there Austin would’ve have came !
One of only a few things dave has written that i actually believe
That’s life
Austin stunning the rock and rock overselling it would’ve been awesome!! 😂
I think Steve seen or heard what Dwayne was receiving for Wrestlemania appearance. He found what they offered him as an insult. Let's say the offered Steve $150,000 he probably said no.
I just wish John and Rock brawled a little not just a Rock bottom. I think Undertaker should have gave the Rock a tombstone.
I wonder if Undertaker said no then how would have the match ended.
Does anyone know the name of the painting behind Kevin Nash?
He got it from a painter on IG. Beautiful girl in Poland iirc, or a country around there. He mentioned her when he got it about a year ago or so.
Its hard to complain about Undertaker showing up, because it did make sense. But I would have preferred Austin given his history with The Rock and that he was the face of his generation like Cena was the face of his. The crowd pop would have been insane if that glass would have shattered and Stone Cold came out.
I think Steve is gonna be saved for the rock v cody next wrestlemania
It wasn't the money. Steve said he didn't wanna look slow or take away anything from the moment for Cody.
Where did he say that?
@heyyo7708 he didn't say that.
Austin didn't want john cena or other wrestlers coming out. He wanted the moment for himself and on top of that more money. 👎🏽
Austin wouldve sucked
Hes wayyyy smaller now
Rock's jacked
Taker is at least taller
Way more believable to have Undertaker
Taker interfering was awkward. You can tell it was last minute. Didn't make sense
Austin knows his worth, I respect it
No, he wanted to be selfish. & I love him but damn
What worth... it's 2024 not 2000.
Why does he want huge sums of money for less than 1 minute just coming out for a stunner
The crowd would have went mental when the glass hit...but Steve attacking The Rock wouldn't have made much sense.
5:12 5:16 Your such a Sweet ❤❤u can take time for others ❤❤ u little Judy
I think if Austin would have came out it would have taken away from everything. No matter how happy we would have all been about Cody, the only think people would talk about is Austin returning.
The only thing that would’ve made Wrestlemania XL even better is if Dustin came out of nowhere to rescue Cody and help him win the Belt that their Father was never able to obtain.
Stone Cold and The Rock have a longer history like Kevin Nash said. The have the biggest sold out rivalries in WrestleMania history... It would have made sense seeing The Rock is calling himself The Final Boss because he He own shares in WWE. Austin is against authority that is on a power trip.
Taker should have been the first run in (Jey Uso's spot) chokeslam off the stage. Austin and Rock for the last run in. They both deserved to be there. I think Hogan should have been involved somehow, even a very small role. 40 years of Mania and no Austin or Hogan come on.
We had a guy strip off his shirt and start spinning it around over his head as soon as The Undertaker’s gong hit lol
If the glass broke, rock was stunned…would have over shadowed Cody’s win
the texts nash mentioned that austin sent him doesn’t make me think austin ever had any plans of going to mania. sounds like meltzer is making up bs again
If they wanted Austin, then they should've PAID HIM
‘’You want me at Wrestlemaina. %#?! you, Pay me! ‘’
Rock was already on his way to hitting suoerstardom before Austin left on injury, Rock carried them into the Millennium
They should've had The Undertaker on that truck right along with John Cena instead of Stone Cold since Taker actually appeared instead of Austin
I think Taker worked better because Austin would’ve needed 2 full minutes to walk down to the ring. You could counter argue an ATV in there but now it’s a clown car match. Taker was just right.
I thought it was obvious that Taker was a last minute fill-in since he didn't have his gear. I wrote in live stream chat that everyone wanted to hear the glass shatter but got the bells instead, which was still okay.
Undertaker is the Shao Kahn of the WWE
I like what Nash said at end. And its true .Had wcw won the war. Noway they are having wwf guys going over their's. Its just how it goes. Look what wcw did with one of the ECW champions. Made the guy a joke .
Austin Rock HHH
steve austin would've made so much more sense and imagine the arena if that glass shattered. that would've been the loudest pop in the history of the business
No it wouldn’t .. He been got the loudest pop already go UA-cam it
Taker's spot was better than Austin's would have been because he has more connection with the modern fans and Wrestlemania belongs to Taker. Austin running to the ring or coming out of the crowd would not have been better than the thing with the lights and Taker.
For that era it is Rock-Austin- HHH then maybe Mankind and Taker. Triple H being the consummate heel allowed Rock and Austin to bounce back and forth between face and heel. Any triple h face run was short lived and inferior to his heel game.
Austin would of made more sense because their 1st wrestlemania main event was in philly at for 15 the rivalry was longer was longer I would of paid austin