Jim Ross Dishes On Reason For Steve Austin’s Absence at WrestleMania 40

The Undertaker made a surprise appearance at WrestleMania 40 on Sunday to assist Cody Rhodes in defeating Roman Reigns. However, fans felt Steve Austin should have been there instead and Jim Ross has now shared his thoughts on the matter.

The most anticipated moment of the event came when Cody Rhodes stepped into the ring with Roman Reigns for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship. The “Bloodline Rules” stipulation added a unique dynamic to the match, creating additional pressure for Rhodes, also known as the American Nightmare, as he faced off against the seemingly invincible Reigns.

While many fans wanted to see ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin return and hit a classic stunner on The Rock, it was The Undertaker who returned and took out The Rock with a vicious chokeslam. WWE was in talks to involve ”Stone Cold” Steve Austin in some capacity during WrestleMania 40 weekend, but he never appeared at the show.

While speaking on the Grilling JR podcast, Jim Ross talked about the likely reason for Steve Austin not appearing at WrestleMania 40. Ross noted that it was likely due to WWE and Austin not reaching an agreement regarding payment.

“I haven’t talked to Steve in several weeks, but I’m assuming that, if I was guessing, and that’s all it would be right now, as I sit here in Jacksonville Beach, Florida, I would say that cash had a major role in why Austin was not at WrestleMania this year. Because there was a spot there at the end where all those guys were getting their flowers, their props, their attaboys, and getting their stuff over et cetera, et cetera that would have fit Steve perfectly.”

Fans were definitely disappointed that The Texas Rattlesnake didn’t make his appearance at WrestleMania 40, so all they can do is hope he will return at next year’s event somehow.

Were you disappointed to see Steve Austin not returning at WrestleMania 40? Let us know in the comments section below!