On the latest episode of his “Everybody’s Got a Pod” podcast, WWE Hall of Famer Ted DiBiase discussed his experience managing Steve Austin in 1996 in WWE, sharing insights into his initial impression of Austin and the potential he saw in him.
Regarding his first impression of Steve Austin, DiBiase recognized Austin’s talent right from the start and saw the potential in him. DiBiase noted how Austin’s character evolved from “Stunning Steve Austin” to the iconic persona we know today, similar to how The Undertaker’s character became one of the biggest names in the company. He said,
“This was the first time that I saw him. I could tell from the get-go that you know; he had the stuff. I just, I saw it right away. And again, it’s like — ’cause when they first introduced him, they called him Stunning Steve Austin. And and then that evolved into who he is today, you know? And that’s totally different. And you know, like you just said, like the first time I saw the Undertaker, I liked the gimmick, but I had no idea that he would end up being one of the biggest names that the company’s ever had. I mean, his name’s right up there with everybody that’s been the world champion. And it should be because his character had that much impact on the business. And so did Steve.”
Reflecting on how big he initially thought Austin would become, DiBiase admitted that he couldn’t have predicted Austin’s immense success. However, he recognized the “it factor” in Austin—the charisma and presence that make a star stand out. DiBiase saw Austin’s potential and acknowledged that, at that point, Austin was just beginning his journey and his future was uncertain. He said,
“At that time, I wouldn’t go so far as to say, ‘Oh my God, this guy’s gonna be one of the biggest things that the company’s ever had.’ I don’t think anybody could have predicted that. I just recognized that he had what we as entertainers all call is the it factor. And the it factor is charisma. I saw it from the get-go. And of course, at that time it was too real. And I — you know, obviously I didn’t know what Vince’s plans were for him or anything like that. I don’t think Steve knew, at that point, but he was just getting started.”
Discussing Austin’s introduction as the Ringmaster, DiBiase emphasized the importance of seizing opportunities in the wrestling industry. He praised Austin for making the most of his chance and proving himself with his remarkable skills, particularly on the microphone. DiBiase recognized the growth in Austin’s confidence and expression as he became more comfortable in his role. He stated,
“It’s kinda like, you’re given the opportunity. You either prove yourself or you don’t, and you don’t get too many opportunities to prove yourself. So you better make the ones you get count. And he did, and in a big way. And so yeah, he deserves all the accolades that he gets because he was one of the best we’ve ever had. And right there, you could already tell he had mike skills. And then as he got more I guess comfortable, if you will, then it eases it up… I guess when you first start, and ‘re worried about impressing the boss and everything and, ‘Well, what is it he wants me to say?’”
DiBiase also acknowledged the impact he had on a young Austin, referring to it as “the rub” in the wrestling business. He believed that Vince McMahon paired Austin with him to benefit from his established name and reputation, which helped elevate Austin’s status. DiBiase considered himself a key factor in Austin’s early success and attributed McMahon’s decision to their potential to go places together. He said,
“I just know this. In the business, we call it the rub. I feel like I was a big enough name in the industry in the WWE that the reason Vince took Austin and put him with me was what? For the rub, in other words. ‘Here’s a guy that I think I can go places with. Let’s put him with Ted.’ Which because of my background, who I was within the company, was just the rub that helps to elevate, you know? And so I think that’s why that’s put him with me, and it worked well. I think that’s the reason. Why did he choose me to be the manager of Austin? That’s because he was gonna go somewhere with him, and he knew it.”
