Recent medical procedures have definitively impacted Stone Cold Steve Austin’s availability for WrestleMania 41, according to industry reports. The WWE Hall of Famer underwent total knee replacement surgery in December, creating an insurmountable timeline challenge for any potential in-ring return.
Sean Ross Sapp addressed the situation during the Fightful Select Q&A podcast when asked about Austin’s WrestleMania status, offering a clear assessment of the reality facing the Texas Rattlesnake.
If you mean like wrestling, no, that would be a miracle. He had a total knee replacement in December. Coming out and throwing some beers or something? Maybe. But I haven’t heard of anything yet.
The surgical procedure became necessary after years of Austin delaying the inevitable intervention. The six-time WWE Champion has been transparent about this aspect of his health journey, acknowledging the extended postponement of addressing his deteriorating joint condition.
My left knee was on its last leg. I have been putting this surgery off for years.
Despite the significant nature of the procedure, Austin has already begun rehabilitation efforts, though he has admitted to potentially pushing his recovery timeline too aggressively in the initial phases. His current training regimen has resumed with modified parameters, avoiding heavy lifting exercises and squats while gradually rebuilding strength.
This medical reality effectively eliminates any possibility of Austin competing at WWE’s premier annual event, though it doesn’t necessarily preclude other forms of participation. A non-wrestling appearance remains theoretically possible, potentially featuring his signature beer celebration or even delivering a Stunner should circumstances allow.
The last time Austin participated in a full match environment was at WrestleMania 38 in 2022, when he defeated Kevin Owens in an unexpected return to in-ring competition after a 19-year retirement. That performance generated significant audience enthusiasm, but his current medical circumstances make a similar physical contribution impossible for this year’s showcase event.