WWE reportedly scrapped plans for The Rock’s iconic rival’s surprise appearance for Raw’s debut on Netflix 

Former WWE Champion and The Rock's arch nemesis was originally planned to appear on Raw Netflix. Unfortunately, plans were scrapped.

WWE reportedly scrapped plans for The Rock’s iconic rival’s surprise appearance for Raw’s debut on Netflix 

Plans for 'Stone Cold' Steve Austin to appear on Raw Netflix get scrapped (via WWE)

WWE is pulling out all the stops for the debut episode of Raw on Netflix. This includes high-profile matches as well as some high-profile appearances from wrestling legends. However, it appears that all of these did not come through. According to Chris Prolific, ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin was slated to make an appearance for the debut episode of Raw on Netflix on January 6th. However, these plans were eventually scrapped.

This news comes just hours after Austin’s arch nemesis, The Rock, confirmed his appearance for the special episode of the red brand. He wrote an emotional message about his family’s elders and how he was entrusted with the responsibility of being the high chief. He was excited to return to his family in Samoa. However, he confirmed that he would first be making an appearance on WWE Raw on Jan 6th.

YouTube video

The Texas Rattlesnake was forced to retire in 2003 due to a serious knee injury and severe neck injuries. However, he did return for a match against Kevin Owens in the night 1 main event of WrestleMania 38. Since his retirement, he has also made several media appearances for the company.

While the news of Austin not being present on Raw may be disappointing for some fans, they can surely expect an action-packed show with appearances from other wrestling legends. Another one of the Rock’s former rivals, John Cena, will kickstart his retirement tour during this episode. Furthermore, WWE may have other surprises planned for its audience as well.

‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin teases an appearance at WrestleMania 41

The WWE Universe got to witness one incredible surprise after another during the main event of WrestleMania XL. Many thought that Steve Austin would be a part of the show and would finally return to take out The Rock. However, it was The Undertaker who came out to disrupt the Final Boss’ plans.

'Stone Cold' Steve Austin
‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin (via WWE)

Although the Hall of Famer was not a part of the Showcase of the Immortals in 2024, he has teased appearing at WrestleMania 41. In an interview with The Athletic, he said that Kevin Owens had only stepped into the ring with the name ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin. However, the person who wrestled that match in 2022 is not the same person who the former King of the Ring winner used to be.

I said I won’t leave Nevada. It’s hard to get me out of this state. But … WrestleMania next year is in Vegas. That’s in Nevada.

‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin on The Athletic

Austin mentioned that he tried to be the guy that he used to be. While his mindset was there, he could physically no longer perform at the same level. Finally, he said that it was hard for someone to make him leave Nevada. However, WrestleMania 41 was coming right to his state in Las Vegas.

Related: CM PUNK reveals what Stone Cold Steve Austin texted him after his shocking WWE return