WWE Hall of Famer “Stone Cold” Steve Austin is widely regarded as one of the most iconic wrestlers in history, and many wrestling promotions have attempted to replicate his unparalleled success. While most efforts have fallen short, AEW commentator Tony Schiavone believes AEW has its own version of Austin. On his “What Happened When?” podcast, Schiavone shared his thoughts on who he feels embodies that same rebellious energy.
“I hate to make this comparison, but I’m going to,” Schiavone said. “I’ve said it before, even back when we first started. Jon Moxley is probably the closest thing to a ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin that we have in AEW. He’s got that same ‘doesn’t give a s**t’ attitude. And Darby Allin is another one. Every time Darby steps in the ring, you think it might be his last match because of the insane stunts he pulls.”
Austin retired as a six-time WWE Champion, while Moxley has already achieved five major titles—three AEW World Championships, one WWE Championship, and one IWGP World Heavyweight Championship. However, Moxley could soon match Austin’s six-title record if he captures the AEW World Championship from Bryan Danielson at WrestleDream on October 12. This high-stakes match, set in Danielson’s home state of Washington, could also mark the end of Danielson’s full-time wrestling career if he loses.
As Schiavone noted, Moxley’s unapologetic, fearless style draws undeniable parallels to the legendary “Texas Rattlesnake.”
