Just three and a half years after making his main-roster WWE television debut, Austin Theory has already worked with some of the biggest names in wrestling history.
The 27-year-old grappler from Atlanta, GA is the latest guest on Chris Van Vliet’s Insights podcast. Theory has been “obsessed” with WWE from a young age. He didn’t give himself a fallback plan, despite skepticism from his friends. His first break into the industry came when he met former WWE trainer Bill DeMott at an MMA gym.
Here are highlights of what he shared with CVV about working with legends including Stone Cold Steve Austin, Brock Lesnar, The Rock and John Cena.
His WrestleMania Feud with John Cena
Theory worked closely with Cena, who pushed him to be more authentic during their promo battles. He recalls it being a challenge to incorporate Cena’s feedback while staying true to his character and his instincts.
Taking a Stunner from Stone Cold Steve Austin at WrestleMania
He was honored to take a Stunner from Stone Cold at WrestleMania, and jokes that he envisioned sharing a beer with Austin backstage afterwards (didn’t happen).
Ring Moment with The Rock:
Theory says it was an unforgettable experience when he had a segment with The Rock on WWE SmackDown. He was notified about the segment at the last minute, but says he felt an almost ‘telepathic’ connection with the Final Boss, who “signaled” to him when to speak during their interaction.
Brock Lesnar F-5’ing him Off An Elimination Chamber Pod
Theory took an absolutely crazy bump at Elimination Chamber 2024, when Brock Lesnar hoisted him onto his shoulders and flung him off the top of one of the pods. He says Vince McMahon hand-picked him for the spot, and Lesnar was ‘intense and unpredictable.’
