Conversations about the greatest stars in professional wrestling history often highlight Steve Austin first—and for good reason. WWE revolutionized the industry and shattered box office records with Austin, who became a pop culture icon far beyond the wrestling world.
While many wrestlers shine with star power, few have delivered matches as memorable as Austin’s at WWE’s biggest moments. These cornerstone bouts have secured Austin’s legacy in wrestling history, warranting a closer look at his finest WWE performances.
Bret Hart (Survivor Series 1996)
Steve Austin’s rise to stardom is often traced back to his 1996 King of the Ring victory and his strong promo that night. Despite some initial stagnation, Austin truly hit his stride in a main event bout against Bret Hart at Survivor Series 1996. WWE trusted Austin as Hart’s opponent after a six-month break, and Austin exceeded expectations, earning Vince McMahon’s increased support and boosting his career momentum.
Shawn Michaels (King of the Ring 1997)
In 1997, Austin engaged in a notable storyline with Shawn Michaels as reluctant tag partners before clashing in a singles bout at King of the Ring. Their evenly matched and intense encounter showcased Austin’s ability to stand toe-to-toe with the company’s biggest stars—though the no-contest ending left some fans wanting more.
The Rock (Backlash 1999)
Following their WrestleMania 15 clash, Austin and The Rock’s rematch at Backlash 1999 was far more electrifying. This No Holds Barred match saw wild brawling and weapon use, with Austin triumphing over The Rock and referee Shane McMahon in one of the most thrilling contests in wrestling history.
Kurt Angle (SummerSlam 2001)
Austin’s controversial heel turn in 2001 led to intense rivalries, including a notable feud with Kurt Angle. Their SummerSlam match gave Angle a strong legitimacy as a top face, despite a disqualification finish that somewhat dampened the excitement in what was otherwise a highly competitive showdown.
Mick Foley (In Your House: Over the Edge 1998)
Mick Foley became Austin’s first major PPV opponent following Austin’s WWE Championship win. Their brutal No Disqualification match at Over the Edge solidified Austin’s status, with him pinning Foley using an unconscious Vince McMahon as referee, delivering an unforgettable conclusion.
Triple H (No Way Out 2001)
Austin’s heated feud with Triple H spanned late 2000 to early 2001, featuring high stakes and intense aggression. The three-stage No Way Out 2001 match saw Triple H narrowly prevail after both men unleashed weapon-filled fury, underlining the fierce competition between two top WWE icons.
The Rock (WrestleMania 17)
WrestleMania 17 served as a climactic moment for the Attitude Era with The Rock and Austin headlining in their primes. The match was a lucrative and riveting contest culminating in Austin’s controversial heel turn, aided by Vince McMahon, marking one of wrestling’s most polarizing and memorable moments.
Bret Hart (WrestleMania 13)
Nearly 30 years ago, Austin and Bret Hart delivered arguably WWE’s greatest match with a legendary double turn that flipped heroes and villains. The dramatic storytelling and Austin’s enduring pain contrasted with Hart’s relentless sniper submission remain the gold standard by which future WWE classics are measured.
Fan Take: Steve Austin’s landmark matches represent pivotal moments that not only shaped his legacy but also advanced the entire WWE landscape. For fans, revisiting these epic battles underscores the timeless appeal of wrestling storytelling and hints at the ongoing potential for future legends to define new eras in sports entertainment.
