Steve Austin Reflects On LeBron James Sitting Ringside At WWE Raw In 2003

LeBron James was a week into his NBA career when he attended WWE Raw with a flip phone. 

James was caught getting excited multiple times, specifically when Steve Austin was in the ring. Years later, LeBron wore a LeBron 3:16 shirt as an homage to Austin. 

Speaking to Complex, Austin reflected on a young LeBron attending Raw. 

“I have forgotten so many things, but I remember that vividly. I was in the ring, he had that flip phone out and was taking pictures. He was basketball. Everything was about LeBron and he was about to really get going and take over the sport. To see him out there, being at a WWE event and be a fan of Stone Cold was very flattering. At the time, I was in character, and when I’m in character, all I’m doing is turning the dial up. That’s not a gimmick, that’s me. I wanted to go out there and shake his hand and slap him on the back, but I couldn’t do that. All these years, for him to bust out the LeBron 3:16 shirt, very cool,” said Austin.

Many NBA players have paid tribute to Austin over the years, but Damian Lillard took it to another level when he dressed as Austin for a pre-game in October 2018. 

Speaking about guys paying tribute to him, Austin said, “Flattering. Totally flattering to see these premiere athletes remember a guy…I came into my hot spot from 96 through 03. A long time ago. For these guys to still remember that, I guess I impacted their life in such a way that they’re paying homage or paying tribute. I really appreciate it and I respect them back.”

Elsewhere during the interview, Austin discussed turning down a shoe deal from Hi-Tec because he was waiting on Nike. You can find his full comments by clicking here.

Austin returned to the ring at WresteMania 38 to defeat Kevin Owens. You can find Austin’s thoughts on the bout by clicking here.

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