“Austin 3:16 says I just whipped your ass!”
The line that capped a promo and helped launch probably the most legendary WWE careers.
Steve Austin was already an completed professional wrestler when he joined the WWE in 1996. Before his signing, he was often called “Stunning” Steve Austin in WCW and have become a part of the Hollywood Blonds, alongside Brian Pillman. In WCW, Austin captured tag staff gold, and have become the United States and WCW Television champion.
After a quick stint in ECW, Austin joined the WWE and was initially often called “The Ringmaster.” In March 1996, “Stone Cold” Steve Austin was born. Black boots, black trunks and no frills — the “Stone Cold” character was a no-nonsense, anti-authority foul mouth. Fans gravitated to him.
Though the “Stone Cold” character debuted in early 1996, it wasn’t till June 23 on the King of the Ring PLE that his reputation surged.
Austin defeated Jake “The Snake” Roberts, who integrated Biblical preaching into his character, to win the King of the Ring event after which delivered a promo that propelled him to superstardom.
“You sit there and you thump your Bible, and you say your prayers, and it didn’t get you anywhere. Talk about your psalms, talk about John 3:16 … Austin 3:16 says I just whipped your ass!”
The “Stone Cold” shirts donning “Austin 3:16” flew off the cabinets, and Austin grew to become probably the most in style superstars in WWE historical past.
In the years that adopted his King of the Ring triumph and historic promo, Austin grew to become a six-time WWE champion, two-time Intercontinental champion, four-time WWE tag staff champion and the one celebrity in historical past to win three Royal Rumble matches. He was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2009.
Accolades apart, “Stone Cold” Steve Austin grew to become an icon not simply in professional wrestling, but in addition in popular culture — a standing that is still true to this day.
Happy 3:16 day!
