Jim Ross Unveils Steve Austin & The Rock’s Special Request for WrestleMania 15 Match

The Rock and “Stone Cold” Steve Austin are both known for many things, but they both broke into mainstream pop culture through WWE. Their clash at WrestleMania 15 was iconic and it appears both of them specifically requested Jim Ross to be on commentary for the bout.

While speaking on a recent episode of his podcast, Grilling JR, Jim Ross delved into various topics, including the WWE Title match between The Rock and Steve Austin at WrestleMania 15. Ross expressed his perspective on perseverance and dedication in the wrestling industry, emphasizing the importance of not giving up, even in the face of challenges. He highlighted the significance of remaining committed to the fight and embracing every opportunity that comes one’s way.

“All right with the world, Conrad, on that illustration. There’s another reason you don’t quit. Another reason you don’t give up in the fight. It’s another reason you don’t unsaddle your horse and put it in the barn, and call it a career. That’s how I look at it. I use every simplistic metaphor I can. But that’s kind of where I’m at right now with that.”

Ross also reflected on his own experience and emotions leading up to the event, acknowledging the surprise of being chosen for such a significant role. Despite not knowing all the details beforehand, he was grateful for the opportunity to be involved and was eager to contribute in any way he could.

Ross emphasized the personal connection he had with both The Rock and Steve Austin, having signed them and developed friendships with them over the years. He considered it a privilege to call their match and felt a deep emotional attachment to the moment.

”So yeah, that was a surprise. I didn’t ask too any questions. You’re not bringing me down there to be an usher because I got a nice suit. So I was happy for the heads up, and happy to do any assignment that I was assigned. Especially that main event. You know, I signed both of those guys. They’re both friends of mine. They’re both valued talents. It was good for me to call their match, for me and for them. Because they knew that I was going to have an emotional attachment to their presentation.”

In reflecting on the experience, Ross pondered whether today’s announcers still maintain the same level of emotional attachment to the matches they call, acknowledging the unique nature of Austin and Rock’s rivalry. He concluded by expressing his gratitude for being given the opportunity to play a role in such a momentous event.

”And I wonder today if today’s announcers still make that emotional attachment to the majority of their matches. I don’t know how you could, to be honest with you. But Austin and Rock were a different situation. So I really, that was a very — I’m sure the next call, when I hung the phone up and I called Jan and said ‘Hey, look, we’re going to Philly.’ It was a week later, she’s got to get close to where. [Chuckles] So anyway, I was very blessed to get that call.”

The match was the start of the legendary trilogy between The Rock and ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin, which culminated at WrestleMania 19 back in 2003. Nonetheless, Ross was glad to be a part of WrestleMania 15 and that is all that truly matters.

Were you surprised by what Jim Ross had to say? Let us know in the comments section below!