Unveiling Stone Cold’s Genesis: Jim Ross Recalls Spotting Steve Austin’s Star Potential
In a time capsule from October 1991, legendary wrestling commentator Jim Ross reminisced about witnessing the early sparks of greatness in none other than “Stone Cold” Steve Austin. Ross reflected on an era where the wrestling landscape was evolving, and the emergence of a potential heir to Ric Flair’s throne was on the horizon.
Steve Austin was destined for greatness pic.twitter.com/YG3PDUZdUm
— Niko Exxtra (@nikoexxtra) August 28, 2022
- Advertisement -
“If there is anyone in the United States with the potential to be the next Ric Flair as a total all-around performer, it’s Austin.” Ross echoed the sentiments of Dave Meltzer, acknowledging Austin’s advanced skills and incredible presence despite being only two years into the business. The profound foresight displayed by Meltzer drew applause from Ross, who acknowledged, “Kudos to Dave.”
Engaging in a trip down memory lane, Ross revisited his own optimistic predictions about Austin’s trajectory. “I said something along those lines positively about Austin back in this era,” Ross recalled, emphasizing the shared belief among those within the wrestling fraternity that Austin was destined for stardom.
“I consider myself a student of the game, which Meltzer is too.” Ross drew parallels between his own understanding of the industry and Meltzer’s acute observations. It was a time when the wrestling world, both inside and out, recognized the raw potential of a Texas Rattlesnake waiting to strike.
“It was so obvious, it was just etched on a big screen: this guy’s gonna be a star.” Ross’s words carried the weight of hindsight, affirming the inevitability of Austin’s ascent. Drawing a parallel to Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s early recognition as a blue-chipper, Ross emphasized that the foresight of greatness wasn’t exclusive to Meltzer.
Olivia’s Insight:
- Advertisement -
As Jim Ross unwraps the layers of history, the revelation of foreseeing Stone Cold’s ascent becomes a testament to the keen eyes within the wrestling community. The echoes of greatness that resonated in the early ’90s set the stage for a phenomenon that would redefine sports entertainment. In the world of wrestling, sometimes, legends are born out of the foresight of those who recognize the spark before it becomes a flame.
Jim Ross recalls an old commentary from October ’91 where he and Dave Meltzer saw star potential in Steve Austin. Ross affirms the foresight in identifying Austin’s capabilities, comparing it to The Rock being labeled a “blue chipper.” He emphasizes that recognizing Austin’s future stardom wasn’t an isolated view but a shared sentiment among those inside the wrestling industry. Ross appreciates Meltzer’s acknowledgment but notes that several insiders perceived Austin’s evolution toward greatness. This early recognition of Austin’s talent showcases the ability of industry veterans like Ross and Meltzer to identify burgeoning stars before their ascent, marking it as a thrilling period in wrestling history.
