The Many Faces Of Steve Austin - Ranked From Worst To Best
3. The Sheriff Of Raw
There’s an argument to be made that Steve Austin is the best babyface authority figure in WWE history. Now retired from the ring, Austin was brought back in as a non-wrestler one week after WrestleMania X8. Linda McMahon appointed him co-General Manager of Raw, and he became the red brand’s Sheriff, routinely dishing-out Stone Cold Stunners to any roster member who defied his authority.
His former boss Eric Bischoff stood across from him, and the duo had outstanding chemistry. WWE viewers had become so accustomed to evil authority figures that having Austin to counter Bischoff’s transgressions felt like a breath of fresh air, and his interactions with active roster members were just as entertaining.
He was briefly “fired” in November, but returned the following month, and continued as Sheriff throughout early 2004. Austin was finally let go following WrestleMania XX, but the role served as a perfect means for Stone Cold to transition into full-time retirement. It allowed him to stay active in the wrestling business without putting too much strain on his injury-ravaged body, and gave the fans a chance to see their old hero in a new role.