But while Edge may be one of the biggest names of all time, Stone Cold Steve Austin was arguably the biggest. The Rattlesnake will likely go down as the most popular star in pro wrestling history, even though his neck trouble forced him into premature retirement. The injury first occurred back at SummerSlam of 1997. In a match with the late Owen Hart, Austins neck buckled after taking a tombstone piledriver, causing him to lose feelings in his extremities. Dazed, he rallied and pinned Hart with a roll-up, but it was clear the damage had been done. Consequently, he was forced to relinquish both the Intercontinental and Tag Team titles that he was holding, and remained out of action until Survivor Series. It wasnt until two years later though that he underwent surgery, ultimately sitting on the sidelines for nine months during the who ran Austin over? angle. Upon returning, he was forced to persist with a less rigorous moveset, and though he battled through for a number of yearsagainst doctors advicehe was eventually forced to call it a day after his WrestleMania XIX showdown with the Rock. He has of course remained a prominent part of WWE programming, most recently appearing in the opening segment of this years Showcase of the Immortals. But fans will forever look back at the Austin-shaped hole that was left in the company, as they continue to clamour for one more match. As unlikely as it is, you can never say never in the world of pro wrestling.
