Steven James Anderson, better known as Stone Cold Steve Austin, is one of the most iconic figures in professional wrestling history.
Known for his rebellious attitude, unforgettable catchphrases, and legendary feuds, Austin helped define WWE’s Attitude Era. Let’s take a closer look at his life, career, and legacy.
Stone Cold Steve Austin’s Biography
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Steven James Anderson (later Steven James Williams) |
| Nickname | Stone Cold, The Texas Rattlesnake, The Bionic Redneck |
| Born | December 18, 1964, in Victoria, Texas |
| Age | 60 |
| Religion | Christian |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 6 ft 2 in (188 cm) |
| Turned Pro | September 30, 1989 |
| Net Worth | Estimated at $30 million |
| Salary | $3 million annually (WWE Legends contract and other ventures) |
| Spouse | Kristin Feres (married since 2009) |
| Relationship Status | Married |
| Children | Three daughters: Stephanie, Cassidy, and stepdaughter Jade |
| Instagram Profile | @steveaustinbsr |
Early Career
Steve Austin began his wrestling career in 1989 after training under Gentleman Chris Adams.
He debuted in World Class Championship Wrestling (WCCW) as “Stunning” Steve Austin and quickly gained recognition for his technical skills and charisma.
After brief stints in the United States Wrestling Association (USWA) and World Championship Wrestling (WCW), where he formed the Hollywood Blonds tag team with Brian Pillman, Austin was fired by WCW in 1995.
This setback led him to Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW), where he developed his brash personality and mic skills.
Professional Career
Austin joined WWE (then WWF) in late 1995 as “The Ringmaster,” but his career skyrocketed after rebranding himself as Stone Cold Steve Austin.
His breakout moment came at the 1996 King of the Ring tournament when he coined the iconic phrase “Austin 3:16.” This marked the beginning of his anti-establishment persona that resonated with fans during WWE’s Attitude Era.
Austin became a 6-time WWF Champion and headlined multiple WrestleManias, including legendary matches against The Rock and Shawn Michaels. His feud with Vince McMahon is considered one of the greatest rivalries in wrestling history.
Injuries forced him to retire from in-ring competition in 2003, but he continued to make sporadic appearances, including a final match at WrestleMania 38 in 2022 against Kevin Owens.
Wife
Stone Cold Steve Austin, whose real name is Steven James Anderson, is currently married to Kristin Feres (Kristin Austin).
The couple tied the knot in 2009 in a private ceremony and have been together for over 15 years. They live in Marina Del Rey, California, and also spend time at their Nevada ranch.
Stone Cold Steve Austin’s Net Worth Details
Stone Cold Steve Austin’s net worth is estimated to be $30 million as of 2025.
His wealth comes from WWE salaries, merchandise royalties, endorsements like Broken Skull IPA, acting roles in films like The Condemned, and hosting his podcast Broken Skull Sessions.
Fight Purses
| Event/Match | Year | Earnings ($) |
|---|---|---|
| WrestleMania XIV vs Shawn Michaels | 1998 | $1 million |
| WrestleMania XV vs The Rock | 1999 | $1.2 million |
| WrestleMania X-Seven vs The Rock | 2001 | $1.5 million |
| WrestleMania XIX vs The Rock | 2003 | $1.25 million |
| WrestleMania 38 vs Kevin Owens | 2022 | $3 million |
Endorsements
Stone Cold Steve Austin has built a successful brand through endorsements and business ventures:
- Broken Skull IPA Beer (El Segundo Brewing Company)
- WWE Merchandise (Austin 3:16 shirts, replica belts)
- Host of Broken Skull Sessions on WWE Network
- Guest appearances on TV shows like Hot Ones and Straight Up Steve Austin
- Make-A-Wish Foundation collaborations
Career Records
| Opponent | Event/Promotion | Result | Stipulation/Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vince McMahon | Raw/Pay-Per-View Feuds | Mixed Results | Iconic boss vs rebel storyline |
| The Rock | WrestleMania XV/X-Seven/XIX | Mixed Results | Three epic WrestleMania clashes |
| Bret Hart | WrestleMania XIII | Loss | Submission Match |
| Shawn Michaels | WrestleMania XIV | Win | Won WWF Championship |
FAQs
1. What is Stone Cold Steve Austin’s real name and birthplace?
Stone Cold Steve Austin was born as Steven James Anderson on December 18, 1964, in Austin, Texas. He later took the name Steven James Williams after his stepfather. He grew up in Edna, Texas, and eventually became one of the most iconic figures in professional wrestling.
2. Why is Stone Cold Steve Austin considered a WWE legend?
Steve Austin is regarded as one of the greatest wrestlers due to his pivotal role in the Attitude Era, his rebellious antihero persona, and legendary feuds with Vince McMahon, The Rock, and others. He is a six-time WWE Champion and a three-time Royal Rumble winner, holding numerous records in WWE history.
3. What is the significance of “Austin 3:16”?
The phrase “Austin 3:16” became iconic after Steve Austin defeated Jake Roberts at King of the Ring 1996 and mocked Roberts’ religious beliefs during a promo. The catchphrase symbolized his brash persona and became one of the best-selling slogans in wrestling history.
4. What led to Stone Cold Steve Austin’s retirement from wrestling?
Austin retired from in-ring competition in 2003 due to recurring neck and knee injuries, including a severe neck injury sustained during a match with Owen Hart at SummerSlam 1997. These injuries posed significant health risks, leading to his decision to step away from active wrestling.
5. What are Stone Cold Steve Austin’s most famous signature moves?
Austin’s most famous move is the “Stone Cold Stunner,” a finishing maneuver that became synonymous with his character. Other signature moves include the Lou Thesz Press and mudhole stomps, which showcased his aggressive wrestling style.
6. What was Stone Cold Steve Austin’s relationship with Vince McMahon?
Austin’s feud with Vince McMahon defined the WWE Attitude Era. Their storyline revolved around Austin defying McMahon’s authority as WWE Chairman, creating some of the most memorable moments in wrestling history, including multiple instances of Austin delivering the “Stone Cold Stunner” to McMahon.
7. Did Stone Cold Steve Austin pursue acting after retiring from wrestling?
Yes, after retiring, Austin appeared in several action films like The Condemned (2007) and The Expendables (2010). While he found moderate success in Hollywood, he later shifted focus to hosting TV shows like Steve Austin’s Broken Skull Challenge and his podcast The Steve Austin Show.
8. Who is Stone Cold Steve Austin married to?
Steve Austin has been married to Kristin Feres since 2009. Kristin has played a supportive role in his personal life, helping him maintain a private lifestyle on their ranch in Texas. This is his fourth marriage.
9. What are some of Stone Cold Steve Austin’s career highlights?
His career highlights include winning six WWE Championships, three Royal Rumbles (1997, 1998, 2001), the 1996 King of the Ring tournament, and being inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2009. He also headlined WrestleMania multiple times against top stars like The Rock.
10. Does Stone Cold Steve Austin still appear in WWE?
Although retired from full-time wrestling, Austin has made sporadic appearances over the years, including hosting segments like “Broken Skull Sessions.” He returned for a match against Kevin Owens at WrestleMania 38 after nearly two decades away from active competition.
