The Steve Austin Show (SAS Classic)

Episode: Former WWE Writer Vince Russo Sits Down With Steve Austin Part Two
Date: April 3, 2025
Host: Steve Austin
Guest: Vince Russo

Episode Overview

In this candid and wide-ranging conversation, Steve Austin welcomes back former WWE head writer Vince Russo for Part Two of their deep-dive into the most talked-about moments, controversies, and philosophies of the WWF “Attitude Era.” Broadcasting from Hollywood, CA by way of the Broken Skull Ranch, the two industry heavyweights dissect the creative processes that shaped pro wrestling, touch on infamous incidents like the Montreal Screwjob and Owen Hart’s tragic accident, and answer fan questions on everything from Mount Rushmores to writing advice. The conversation is honest and intense, filled with behind-the-scenes details and unfiltered reflections from two of wrestling’s most influential voices.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. The Turning Point of the “Attitude Era”

(01:30 – 04:34)

Vince Russo attributes the explosive growth of WWF’s audience to the decision to bring in Mike Tyson for WrestleMania XIV, describing it as the moment that took wrestling mainstream:

“The turning point was when Vince had the insight to hire Mike Tyson for that pay per view... When Tyson was on the pay per view that next week, we went from the three to the four... and never looked back.” (Vince Russo, 02:59)
Russo stresses the importance of expanding beyond the existing fanbase and credits Tyson as a catalyst for capturing mainstream attention.

2. Navigating Criticism & Creative Polarization

(04:34 – 05:32)

Russo voices frustration with critics reluctant to acknowledge data or accept his perspective, emphasizing how ingrained opinions persist regardless of facts.

3. Creating and Handling Controversial Characters

Goldust, Val Venis, Sable (05:32 – 18:13)

Russo explains that he wrote Goldust’s innuendo-laden promos but had to dial it back due to sponsor and network pressure:

“I wrote all the verbiage so I would make sure it was all innuendo... but... Vince is calling me in the office and pulling back the reins...” (Vince Russo, 07:12)
Austin remembers Goldust’s heat and success before the character was abruptly toned down, reflecting how business pressures sometimes outweigh creative plans.
On Val Venis, Russo clarifies the idea wasn’t planned—it grew from meeting Sean Morley, who “looked like a porn star."
With Sable, Russo describes recognizing her potential after witnessing live crowd reactions, drawing a contrast to today’s multi-layered creative approval process.

4. Modern WWE Product & Challenges of a Three-Hour RAW

(08:29 – 14:54)

Both men agree that three hours is “too long” for a weekly wrestling show, with Russo noting the product suffers from excessive stretching and repetition. He points to a lack of urgency compared to the Attitude Era, where:

“We never had one match go to a break. Never. There was never a two-segment match ever.” (Vince Russo, 14:07)
Russo laments WWE’s attempts to “pacify everyone” by mixing kid-friendly and adult content, which leads to a scattered, diluted show:

“...what they're doing is they're eliminating people. Because when an adult... sees the bull get the tail ripped out of them, they're turning that crap off.” (Vince Russo, 11:27)

5. Building Stories and Characters—Then Vs. Now

(15:17 – 18:13)

Russo underscores the difference between today’s approach of “heels act this way, babyfaces act that way” and his era’s focus on writing for individual personalities.
Discussed the impact of a strong talent pipeline (crediting Jim Ross) and how modern rosters often lack overall depth.

6. Iconic Moments – The Beer Truck & Zamboni

(20:16 – 23:34)

Russo recounts pitching Austin on the famous “beer truck” segment, and the evolution of “what crazy thing can Austin do next?” Always seeking to top previous stunts for maximal impact.

7. Creative Tactics with Different Talents

(24:45 – 27:12)

Russo says adapting to different personalities was crucial—“putting himself in the boots” of each character:

“Every single person on that roster would have a different reaction... That's what made it real.” (Vince Russo, 25:51)
This individualized approach, he believes, is missing from today’s wrestling writing.

8. The Montreal Screwjob: Behind the Curtain

(27:58 – 35:16)

Russo details pitching the infamous “sharpshooter” finish, being a third party during Vince McMahon and Bret Hart’s phone call, and the emotional fallout:

“I was the third party on the phone... Every idea under the sun was pitched to Bret... he poo-pooed everything.” (Vince Russo, 28:37)
Both Russo and Austin agree that while the moment was gutting, they ultimately supported the decision as necessary to protect the company.

9. Aftermath of the Screwjob & Emotional Toll

(35:16 – 39:32)

Russo reveals being shamed by Mick Foley but stands by his call, emphasizing McMahon’s leadership and willingness to take heat face-to-face.
Austin and Russo reflect on storytelling—praising long, intricate angles (e.g., The Rock joining the Corporation) and the adrenaline rush, or “high,” from successful shows.

10. Fan Q&A and Miscellaneous Topics

(40:19 – 46:45)

Mount Rushmore: Russo cites Ernie Ladd, Chief Jay Strongbow, Lou Albano, and Vince McMahon Sr. as his personal top four.
Creative Structure: Russo says he wouldn’t rejoin WWE under the current multi-writer, multi-vision system—believes “only one vision” can succeed.
Underutilized Talent: Singles out Dolph Ziggler for his passion and underuse.

11. Direct Fire Q&A – Working with Steve Austin

(48:05 – 52:13)

Austin recalls a legendary backstage blow-up over creative differences, asking Russo how he managed such situations. Russo compares the role to being a psychologist, respecting when talent is “that into their character.”

12. Controversial Angles (Mae Young, Katie Vick)

(52:44 – 53:17)

Russo sets the record straight: he was not responsible for the infamous “Mae Young hand” or “Katie Vick” gimmicks.

13. Writing Advice & Creative Philosophy

(54:29 – 56:21)

Russo encourages aspiring wrestling writers to “write every day,” suggesting personal websites as a portfolio tool. Emphasizes writing craft first, then content.

14. Owen Hart’s Tragic Accident

(66:09 – 75:48)

Russo offers a raw, heart-wrenching account of how Owen’s fatal fall was never supposed to be part of the original show; it was only added days before at the suggestion of a building manager seeking to showcase riggers’ abilities.

“If at any time Owen would have said…‘I don’t feel comfortable,’ it would have never happened...that’s why I say, you know, we can’t explain things that happen.” (Vince Russo, 69:01)
Both men share the emotional toll on themselves and the locker room, Austin recalling the surreal aftermath and difficulty of performing the next night.

15. Why Vince Russo Left WWF

(76:06 – 79:49)

Russo details burning out from the workload after the introduction of SmackDown, and finally leaving when McMahon suggested he “hire a nanny” instead of moving his family for support:

“As an Italian guy from New York, when those words came out of his mouth, that was the end... I was on the phone with JJ Dillon over at WCW.” (Vince Russo, 78:21)

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

On the Attitude Era's Edge:
“The matches were violent, promos were cutting edge. No envelope unpushed.”
(paraphrased theme throughout)
On the Beer Truck Segment:
“Steve, tonight you're going to drive a beer truck into the building. And bro, you looked at me like I had three heads.” (Vince Russo, 21:10)
On Writing for Individuals:
“…I would put myself in your boots. And how would Steve react if this happened? …That’s what made it real.” (Vince Russo, 25:51)
On the Fallout from the Montreal Screwjob:
“I’ll never forget it. Here’s the match. I’m watching the match sitting next to Taker… and then all of a sudden I’m watching and I see that finish go down and take her was gonna kill somebody…” (Vince Russo, 30:40)
On Owen Hart’s Accident:
“The show is written… I get a call from Steve Taylor… I said, why not Owen? He’s gonna be the Blue Blazer… it would be a spectacular entrance… it was never written into the original show.” (Vince Russo, 67:13)
On Representation in the Business:
“You can't make everybody happy. It's absolutely impossible. You can't make everybody happy.” (Steve Austin, 13:24)
On Leaving WWF:
“When he showed me he cared that little about me and my family… that was the end. There was no discussion. There was no turning back.” (Vince Russo, 78:26)

Important Timestamps

01:30 – Russo joins, discussing the “Attitude Era” beginning
02:59 – The impact of Mike Tyson’s WWF appearance
05:32 – Goldust character controversies & sponsor backlash
08:48 – Thoughts on length of RAW and its pacing
14:07 – “Never a two-segment match” philosophy
18:34 – Talent depth and Jim Ross’ importance
20:16 – The beer truck segment origin
25:51 – Writing individualized stories for talent
28:09 – Montreal Screwjob breakdown
35:16 – Emotional aftermath and locker room loyalty
40:42 – Russo’s Mount Rushmore
46:45 – What it takes to elevate underutilized talent
48:05 – Russo on working with Austin, “psychologist” role
52:44 – Setting the record straight on infamous angles
66:09 – Owen Hart’s accident detailed
76:06 – Russo’s reasons for leaving WWF

Final Thoughts

This episode is a masterclass in wrestling storytelling and creativity, delivered in the blunt, passionate style only Austin and Russo can provide. It offers unique insight into professional wrestling’s most turbulent and creative era, unfiltered accounts of triumph and tragedy, and concrete advice for anyone interested in the craft of sports entertainment storytelling. Russo doesn’t shy away from criticism, takes responsibility when warranted, and openly discusses emotions rarely aired in the wrestling business. For fans of the Attitude Era—and anyone with an interest in how legends are made and legacies shaped—this is essential listening.

For more, listen to prior episodes and stay tuned for part three, focusing on WCW and TNA.

The Steve Austin Show (SAS Classic)

Episode: Former WWE Writer Vince Russo Sits Down With Steve Austin Part Two
Date: April 3, 2025
Host: Steve Austin
Guest: Vince Russo

Episode Overview

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. The Turning Point of the “Attitude Era”

(01:30 – 04:34)

Vince Russo attributes the explosive growth of WWF’s audience to the decision to bring in Mike Tyson for WrestleMania XIV, describing it as the moment that took wrestling mainstream:

“The turning point was when Vince had the insight to hire Mike Tyson for that pay per view... When Tyson was on the pay per view that next week, we went from the three to the four... and never looked back.” (Vince Russo, 02:59)
Russo stresses the importance of expanding beyond the existing fanbase and credits Tyson as a catalyst for capturing mainstream attention.

2. Navigating Criticism & Creative Polarization

(04:34 – 05:32)

Russo voices frustration with critics reluctant to acknowledge data or accept his perspective, emphasizing how ingrained opinions persist regardless of facts.

3. Creating and Handling Controversial Characters

Goldust, Val Venis, Sable (05:32 – 18:13)

Russo explains that he wrote Goldust’s innuendo-laden promos but had to dial it back due to sponsor and network pressure:

“I wrote all the verbiage so I would make sure it was all innuendo... but... Vince is calling me in the office and pulling back the reins...” (Vince Russo, 07:12)
Austin remembers Goldust’s heat and success before the character was abruptly toned down, reflecting how business pressures sometimes outweigh creative plans.
On Val Venis, Russo clarifies the idea wasn’t planned—it grew from meeting Sean Morley, who “looked like a porn star."
With Sable, Russo describes recognizing her potential after witnessing live crowd reactions, drawing a contrast to today’s multi-layered creative approval process.

4. Modern WWE Product & Challenges of a Three-Hour RAW

(08:29 – 14:54)

Both men agree that three hours is “too long” for a weekly wrestling show, with Russo noting the product suffers from excessive stretching and repetition. He points to a lack of urgency compared to the Attitude Era, where:

“We never had one match go to a break. Never. There was never a two-segment match ever.” (Vince Russo, 14:07)
Russo laments WWE’s attempts to “pacify everyone” by mixing kid-friendly and adult content, which leads to a scattered, diluted show:

“...what they're doing is they're eliminating people. Because when an adult... sees the bull get the tail ripped out of them, they're turning that crap off.” (Vince Russo, 11:27)

5. Building Stories and Characters—Then Vs. Now

(15:17 – 18:13)

Russo underscores the difference between today’s approach of “heels act this way, babyfaces act that way” and his era’s focus on writing for individual personalities.
Discussed the impact of a strong talent pipeline (crediting Jim Ross) and how modern rosters often lack overall depth.

6. Iconic Moments – The Beer Truck & Zamboni

(20:16 – 23:34)

Russo recounts pitching Austin on the famous “beer truck” segment, and the evolution of “what crazy thing can Austin do next?” Always seeking to top previous stunts for maximal impact.

7. Creative Tactics with Different Talents

(24:45 – 27:12)

Russo says adapting to different personalities was crucial—“putting himself in the boots” of each character:

“Every single person on that roster would have a different reaction... That's what made it real.” (Vince Russo, 25:51)
This individualized approach, he believes, is missing from today’s wrestling writing.

8. The Montreal Screwjob: Behind the Curtain

(27:58 – 35:16)

Russo details pitching the infamous “sharpshooter” finish, being a third party during Vince McMahon and Bret Hart’s phone call, and the emotional fallout:

“I was the third party on the phone... Every idea under the sun was pitched to Bret... he poo-pooed everything.” (Vince Russo, 28:37)
Both Russo and Austin agree that while the moment was gutting, they ultimately supported the decision as necessary to protect the company.

9. Aftermath of the Screwjob & Emotional Toll

(35:16 – 39:32)

Russo reveals being shamed by Mick Foley but stands by his call, emphasizing McMahon’s leadership and willingness to take heat face-to-face.
Austin and Russo reflect on storytelling—praising long, intricate angles (e.g., The Rock joining the Corporation) and the adrenaline rush, or “high,” from successful shows.

10. Fan Q&A and Miscellaneous Topics

(40:19 – 46:45)

Mount Rushmore: Russo cites Ernie Ladd, Chief Jay Strongbow, Lou Albano, and Vince McMahon Sr. as his personal top four.
Creative Structure: Russo says he wouldn’t rejoin WWE under the current multi-writer, multi-vision system—believes “only one vision” can succeed.
Underutilized Talent: Singles out Dolph Ziggler for his passion and underuse.

11. Direct Fire Q&A – Working with Steve Austin

(48:05 – 52:13)

Austin recalls a legendary backstage blow-up over creative differences, asking Russo how he managed such situations. Russo compares the role to being a psychologist, respecting when talent is “that into their character.”

12. Controversial Angles (Mae Young, Katie Vick)

(52:44 – 53:17)

Russo sets the record straight: he was not responsible for the infamous “Mae Young hand” or “Katie Vick” gimmicks.

13. Writing Advice & Creative Philosophy

(54:29 – 56:21)

Russo encourages aspiring wrestling writers to “write every day,” suggesting personal websites as a portfolio tool. Emphasizes writing craft first, then content.

14. Owen Hart’s Tragic Accident

(66:09 – 75:48)

Russo offers a raw, heart-wrenching account of how Owen’s fatal fall was never supposed to be part of the original show; it was only added days before at the suggestion of a building manager seeking to showcase riggers’ abilities.

“If at any time Owen would have said…‘I don’t feel comfortable,’ it would have never happened...that’s why I say, you know, we can’t explain things that happen.” (Vince Russo, 69:01)
Both men share the emotional toll on themselves and the locker room, Austin recalling the surreal aftermath and difficulty of performing the next night.

15. Why Vince Russo Left WWF

(76:06 – 79:49)

Russo details burning out from the workload after the introduction of SmackDown, and finally leaving when McMahon suggested he “hire a nanny” instead of moving his family for support:

“As an Italian guy from New York, when those words came out of his mouth, that was the end... I was on the phone with JJ Dillon over at WCW.” (Vince Russo, 78:21)

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

On the Attitude Era's Edge:
“The matches were violent, promos were cutting edge. No envelope unpushed.”
(paraphrased theme throughout)
On the Beer Truck Segment:
“Steve, tonight you're going to drive a beer truck into the building. And bro, you looked at me like I had three heads.” (Vince Russo, 21:10)
On Writing for Individuals:
“…I would put myself in your boots. And how would Steve react if this happened? …That’s what made it real.” (Vince Russo, 25:51)
On the Fallout from the Montreal Screwjob:
“I’ll never forget it. Here’s the match. I’m watching the match sitting next to Taker… and then all of a sudden I’m watching and I see that finish go down and take her was gonna kill somebody…” (Vince Russo, 30:40)
On Owen Hart’s Accident:
“The show is written… I get a call from Steve Taylor… I said, why not Owen? He’s gonna be the Blue Blazer… it would be a spectacular entrance… it was never written into the original show.” (Vince Russo, 67:13)
On Representation in the Business:
“You can't make everybody happy. It's absolutely impossible. You can't make everybody happy.” (Steve Austin, 13:24)
On Leaving WWF:
“When he showed me he cared that little about me and my family… that was the end. There was no discussion. There was no turning back.” (Vince Russo, 78:26)

Important Timestamps

01:30 – Russo joins, discussing the “Attitude Era” beginning
02:59 – The impact of Mike Tyson’s WWF appearance
05:32 – Goldust character controversies & sponsor backlash
08:48 – Thoughts on length of RAW and its pacing
14:07 – “Never a two-segment match” philosophy
18:34 – Talent depth and Jim Ross’ importance
20:16 – The beer truck segment origin
25:51 – Writing individualized stories for talent
28:09 – Montreal Screwjob breakdown
35:16 – Emotional aftermath and locker room loyalty
40:42 – Russo’s Mount Rushmore
46:45 – What it takes to elevate underutilized talent
48:05 – Russo on working with Austin, “psychologist” role
52:44 – Setting the record straight on infamous angles
66:09 – Owen Hart’s accident detailed
76:06 – Russo’s reasons for leaving WWF

Final Thoughts

For more, listen to prior episodes and stay tuned for part three, focusing on WCW and TNA.

Former WWE Writer Vince Russo Sits Down With Steve Austin Part Two (SAS CLASSIC)

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Summary

The Steve Austin Show (SAS Classic)

Episode Overview

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. The Turning Point of the “Attitude Era”

2. Navigating Criticism & Creative Polarization

3. Creating and Handling Controversial Characters

4. Modern WWE Product & Challenges of a Three-Hour RAW

5. Building Stories and Characters—Then Vs. Now

6. Iconic Moments – The Beer Truck & Zamboni

7. Creative Tactics with Different Talents

8. The Montreal Screwjob: Behind the Curtain

9. Aftermath of the Screwjob & Emotional Toll

10. Fan Q&A and Miscellaneous Topics

11. Direct Fire Q&A – Working with Steve Austin

12. Controversial Angles (Mae Young, Katie Vick)

13. Writing Advice & Creative Philosophy

14. Owen Hart’s Tragic Accident

15. Why Vince Russo Left WWF

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

Important Timestamps

Final Thoughts

Summary

The Steve Austin Show (SAS Classic)

Episode Overview

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. The Turning Point of the “Attitude Era”

2. Navigating Criticism & Creative Polarization

3. Creating and Handling Controversial Characters

4. Modern WWE Product & Challenges of a Three-Hour RAW

5. Building Stories and Characters—Then Vs. Now

6. Iconic Moments – The Beer Truck & Zamboni

7. Creative Tactics with Different Talents

8. The Montreal Screwjob: Behind the Curtain

9. Aftermath of the Screwjob & Emotional Toll

10. Fan Q&A and Miscellaneous Topics

11. Direct Fire Q&A – Working with Steve Austin

12. Controversial Angles (Mae Young, Katie Vick)

13. Writing Advice & Creative Philosophy

14. Owen Hart’s Tragic Accident

15. Why Vince Russo Left WWF

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

Important Timestamps

Final Thoughts