Columbus, Ohio

King Of The PPV

Zlatan's new theme song The Lion" by RZA and GZA starts blaring through the speakers. The Titantron displays a roaring lion transitioning into Zlatan's determined face.

Zlatan appears on the ramp, wearing his hooded robe. The robe is black with gold trim, echoing his ring attire. He begins his walk to the ring, absorbing the crowd's energy but staying intensely focused.

Howard Finkel: "The following contest is scheduled for one fall and it is a No Disqualification Match! Making his way to the ring, from Malmö, Sweden, weighing in at 255 pounds, 'The Young Lion,' Zlatan Ibrahimović!"

Jim Ross: "Ladies and gentlemen, let me tell ya, Zlatan Ibrahimović has had quite the road to the WWE. Born to immigrant parents from Yugoslavia on October 3, 1981, he grew up facing adversity at every corner in the streets of Rosengård. This Young Lion has quickly made his mark since his WWE debut, and tonight he's lookin' to earn the respect of the Texas Rattlesnake with a victory over Stone Cold Steve Austin."

Zlatan climbs into the ring, removes his hood and robe, and positions himself in a martial arts stance as his music fades.

The unmistakable sound of glass breaking echoes through the arena, followed by Stone Cold's iconic entrance music.

Howard Finkel: "And his opponent, from Victoria, Texas, weighing in at 252 pounds, Stone Cold Steve Austin!"

Stone Cold walks out, clad in his classic black trunks, black boots, and black knee braces. He has that trademark icy stare as he makes his way down the ramp.

Jim Ross: "And here comes the toughest S.O.B. in the history of this business. Stone Cold Steve Austin has clashed with the best and has always come out swinging. If Zlatan wants Stone Cold's respect, he'll have to earn it the hard way, let me tell you!"

Stone Cold enters the ring, climbs a turnbuckle, and salutes the crowd with his signature taunt before hopping down and preparing for battle.

The two competitors lock eyes, the tension palpable. The referee signals for the bell, and the epic No Disqualification match between Zlatan Ibrahimović and Stone Cold Steve Austin is underway.

Ding, Ding, Ding!

As soon as the bell rings, both Stone Cold and Zlatan rush towards the center of the ring. Without wasting a second, they engage in a brutal exchange of fists. Stone Cold, drawing from years of in-ring experience, manages to get the upper hand. He lands a series of right hands, pushing the Young Lion back to the corner.

Jim Ross: "Stone Cold's experience shining through here, folks!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "Yeah, but don't count out this punk kid with the funny accent!"

Just as Austin goes for a fourth punch, Zlatan blocks it. He channels his martial arts background, countering with a quick series of well-aimed strikes, his fists landing like precision-guided missiles.

Jim Ross: "Ah! Look at those strikes! A beautiful combination from Zlatan!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "Big deal. Austin has taken hits from the best!"

Austin ducks to avoid a high kick, then retaliates with a kick to Zlatan's midsection. He sets up for his iconic Stone Cold Stunner.

Jim Ross: "Austin going for the Stunner! This could be over quick!"

But Zlatan has other plans. Using his core strength, he pushes Austin off, blocking the Stunner attempt. Seizing the moment, Zlatan goes for his finisher, the Lion's Roar—a devastating superkick aimed right at Austin's chin.

Jim Ross: "Lion's Roar! Lion's Roar! If he hits this, it's over!"

Stone Cold ducks just in time, narrowly avoiding the superkick.

Both men take a step back, locking eyes. Each gives the other a taunting gesture, signaling how close they were to finishing the match.

Zlatan: "You were close to getting super kicked!"

Stone Cold: "And you were about half a second from tasting a Stone Cold Stunner!"

Jim Ross: "Both of these men narrowly avoiding defeat. The tension in this ring is electric!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "Yeah, but Austin isn't gonna let some punk kid show him up!"

The two wrestlers circle each other again, ready for another round of combat, the crowd buzzing in anticipation of what's to come.

After their momentary standoff, both men take a deep breath and move back to the center of the ring. They lock up in a classic collar-and-elbow tie-up, jockeying for position.

Jim Ross: "Collar-and-elbow tie-up here, classic wrestling to gain control!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "Yeah, but strength is gonna win out, J.R. And we know who has that!"

Surprising some fans—and perhaps even Stone Cold—Zlatan manages to overpower Austin, using his added strength training under Frank Andersson. He pushes Stone Cold back into the corner, his feet sliding on the mat as he's driven back by the Swede's power.

Jim Ross: "Good God! Did you see that? Zlatan just pushed Stone Cold into the corner like he was a featherweight!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "Luck, pure luck. Austin was caught off guard, that's all."

Having showcased his newfound strength, Zlatan steps back, allowing the referee to create some separation. Stone Cold, ever the competitor, doesn't look pleased but appears more focused than ever.

Zlatan: "See that, Austin? That's Swedish power!"

Stone Cold: "Don't get too comfortable, kid. You ain't won nothin' yet."

The two men stare each other down once more, both aware that they each have the tools to win this match—it's all a matter of who can execute their game plan first.

Jim Ross: "This match is far from over, folks. Both men are full of surprises, and both are dead set on proving they're the best."

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "Austin isn't going to let this punk kid make a name at his expense, J.R. Mark my words."

Resetting themselves, they prepare for the next phase of their battle, knowing that one big move could swing the momentum irreversibly in either direction.

Feel free to continue the match from this point. The intensity is building, and it's anyone's game!

Both competitors lock eyes again and decide to go for another collar-and-elbow tie-up in the center of the ring. This time, however, Stone Cold gains the upper hand. He delivers a quick knee strike to Zlatan's midsection, forcing the Swede to double over in pain.

Jim Ross: "Oh, a knee right to the gut! That'll take the wind out of your sails!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "That's the Stone Cold we all know and love!"

Capitalizing on his advantage, Austin follows up with a thunderous right hand, sending shockwaves through the crowd.

Jim Ross: "And a right hand! Stone Cold is starting to build momentum!"

Seizing the opportunity, Austin whips Zlatan off the ropes, but the Young Lion returns with a vengeance, delivering a powerful shoulder knockdown that leaves Austin flat on his back.

Jim Ross: "Shoulder knockdown by Zlatan! What power!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "That punk kid just got lucky, J.R.!"

Feeling the adrenaline, Zlatan bounces off the ropes again, seeking to keep Austin off balance. Stone Cold quickly rises and ducks down, attempting a clothesline, but Zlatan reads it well and ducks under Austin's outstretched arm.

Jim Ross: "Both men showing incredible agility and ring awareness!"

But as Zlatan springs off the opposite ropes and charges back, Stone Cold pivots and lands a picture-perfect clothesline, flipping Zlatan inside out.

Jim Ross: "Clothesline from Hell! Stone Cold turned him inside out!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "I told you, J.R., Austin is not letting this kid get the better of him!"

Both men are down for a moment, gasping for air. They realize that while they've been testing each other's physical limits, the real battle is one of wills. Who will get up first? Who wants it more?

Jim Ross: "These two men are giving it their all, and it's still anyone's match!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "Yeah, but my money's on the Rattlesnake. Experience over youth, J.R., remember that."

The crowd is on the edge of their seats, as Stone Cold and Zlatan begin to stir, ready for the next act in this gripping drama.

After landing the devastating clothesline, Stone Cold rolls out of the ring and grabs a steel chair, a smirk forming on his face as he slides it into the ring.

Jim Ross: "Uh-oh, folks. Stone Cold has brought out the steel, and this is a No DQ match!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "He's going to teach this punk kid a real lesson now!"

Stone Cold wastes no time and sets up the chair in the center of the ring. He then lifts Zlatan off the mat and positions him for a suplex. With a grunt, Austin lifts Zlatan into the air and crashes him down onto the chair with a resounding clang.

Jim Ross: "Good God Almighty! Suplex onto the steel chair! This could be it!"

Stone Cold goes for the pin.

Referee: "ONE! TWO!"

But Zlatan kicks out just before the three count, shocking the Texas Rattlesnake and the audience.

Jim Ross: "He kicked out! The Young Lion kicked out!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "This kid must be as stubborn as he is stupid!"

Unfazed, Stone Cold picks up the steel chair and starts to rain down a series of brutal chair shots onto Zlatan's back, each one echoing throughout the arena.

Jim Ross: "Stone Cold is unleashing Hell with that chair!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "That's what happens when you poke the bear, or in this case, the Rattlesnake!"

Zlatan writhes in pain on the mat, each shot visibly taking its toll. But he refuses to stay down, pushing through the pain and gritting his teeth.

Jim Ross: "I can't believe Zlatan is still moving! The resilience of this young man is incredible!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "Well, he better do something fast, or he's going to be flattened for good!"

Stone Cold throws the dented chair out of the ring, confident that he's inflicted enough damage. He looks down at Zlatan, waiting for him to make the next move, almost daring him to get up.

Jim Ross: "The tension in this arena is palpable. Both men have been through a war, and it's far from over!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "Stone Cold smells blood, J.R., and when that happens, it's over!"

As Stone Cold stands there, catching his breath, Zlatan starts to stir, reminding everyone why he's called the Young Lion. The question now is: can he mount a comeback, or has Stone Cold's onslaught been too much?

Stone Cold, sensing that the end might be near, pulls Zlatan up to his feet. With a sneer, he unleashes a volley of right hands, forcing Zlatan back into the corner.

Jim Ross: "Stone Cold is unloading with those right hands! He's got Zlatan cornered!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "Here comes the pain, J.R.!"

Taking his cue from the crowd, Austin then starts stomping away at Zlatan, driving his boot into the Swede's midsection again and again. As he does, the crowd joins in, each stomp punctuated by a loud "WHAT!"

Jim Ross: "Stone Cold stomping a mudhole in Zlatan! The crowd is loving it!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "This is classic Stone Cold! And the crowd is eating it up!"

After several brutal stomps, Austin steps back, arms raised, reveling in the cheers of the crowd. It's a vintage Stone Cold moment, but it also gives Zlatan a much-needed respite.

Jim Ross: "Austin is soaking in the adulation, but he's got to be careful. He's giving Zlatan a chance to recover!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "Stone Cold has this in the bag, J.R. He's just playing with him now!"

As Stone Cold turns back, determined to finish what he started, he discovers Zlatan slowly pulling himself up using the ropes. Their gazes lock, and in that instant, it's crystal clear that neither man is willing to yield an inch.

Jim Ross: "Look at Zlatan, summoning every ounce of courage to rise! His determination is truly remarkable!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "Or is it sheer audacity? Does he not know when to throw in the towel?"

Zlatan, a mixture of pain and unwavering resolve on his face, steps out of the corner. He exchanges an intense stare with Stone Cold, signaling that this battle is far from its conclusion.

Jim Ross: "Both warriors have endured a grueling contest, and neither is ready to give up. This is the essence of true competition, folks!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "Well, Zlatan better have a few tricks up his sleeve, or he's going to be in a world of trouble!"

Stone Cold smirks, cracks his knuckles, and moves in for the decisive strike. But Zlatan stands his ground, ready to fight back.

As Zlatan summons his strength to rise, he goes to swing a right hand at Austin, but Austin swiftly ducks his head under the oncoming blow. With lightning speed, Austin grabs hold of Zlatan's waist and executes a powerful back suplex, driving Zlatan hard into the canvas.

Jim Ross: "Incredible counter by Stone Cold! He ducks under Zlatan's punch and delivers a devastating back suplex!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "Zlatan didn't see that coming, J.R.! Stone Cold is in control!"

The referee slides into position to make the count: "1... 2..." but just as it seems like it might be over, Zlatan summons his resilience and kicks out with authority, refusing to let the match end.

Jim Ross: "Zlatan kicks out! He's not ready to call it quits just yet!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "This Young Lion has some fight left in him, J.R.! It's not over!"

The crowd roars in appreciation of the incredible action, as both Stone Cold and Zlatan show their determination to continue this hard-fought battle.

In a cunning move, Austin seizes the opportunity presented by the "no disqualification" stipulation. He positions Zlatan near the ropes and uses his knee to press down on Zlatan's throat, taking advantage of the lack of disqualification rules.

Jim Ross: "Stone Cold is ruthless! He's using the ropes to choke Zlatan, and there's nothing the referee can do about it with the no disqualification stipulation!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "That's the cold, calculating nature of Stone Cold, J.R. He'll do whatever it takes to win!"

Zlatan struggles desperately, gasping for breath as the ropes dig into his throat. The referee watches closely, knowing there's no rule to break up this brutal maneuver.

The crowd's mixed reactions reflect the intensity of the moment, with some fans cheering for Stone Cold's crafty tactics while others express their concern for Zlatan's well-being. The match has taken a dangerous turn, and both competitors are pushing the limits of what they can endure.

The action continues to unfold as Austin whips Zlatan towards the ropes. However, Zlatan displays quick thinking and reverses the whip, sending Austin towards the ropes instead. As Austin rebounds off the ropes and charges back towards Zlatan, Zlatan executes a thunderous clothesline, catching Austin off guard and sending him crashing to the mat.

Jim Ross: "What a reversal by Zlatan! He just turned the tables on Stone Cold with that clothesline!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "Zlatan's showing some serious resilience here, J.R.!"

But just when it seems like Zlatan might gain the upper hand, Austin, with his veteran instincts, counters swiftly. He grabs hold of Zlatan's legs and drives him down to the canvas with a spinebuster, asserting his dominance once again.

Jim Ross: "Stone Cold with a spinebuster! He's back in control!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "You can never count out the Texas Rattlesnake, J.R. He's a master of turning the tide!"

The crowd is on the edge of their seats as the pendulum of momentum swings back and forth in this fierce contest between two determined competitors.

Continuing the intense matchup, Austin seizes Zlatan up with a quick, calculated motion, locking onto him for the Stunner just as Ibrahimovic manages to pull himself back up to his feet. Stone Cold takes aim, determined to deliver the Stunner and possibly bring this thrilling contest to an abrupt conclusion.

Jim Ross: "Stone Cold's setting up for the Stunner! He's looking to put Zlatan away right here!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "This could be the end of the road for Zlatan, J.R. Stone Cold means business!"

The anticipation in the arena is palpable as the crowd holds its breath, fully aware that one swift move could decide the fate of this hard-fought battle.

As Austin goes for a kick to the midsection, Zlatan displays brilliant counter-wrestling skills, catching Austin's leg mid-air. With a quick, knowing look exchanged with the referee, acknowledging the No Disqualification rules in place, Zlatan strategically executes a precise low blow that sends a shockwave through Austin's body. Austin's knees buckle, and he clutches his groin in pain.

Jim Ross: "Oh, a low blow, and that might have just backfired on Austin. He waited too long for the Young Lion to get back to his feet and with a swift counter, Zlatan delivers a devastating low blow!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "Well, in a No DQ match, the rulebook goes out the window, J.R.!"

Jim Ross: "Way down in South Sweden, was that low blow!"

Seizing the opportunity, Zlatan follows up with a flawlessly executed belly-to-belly suplex, sending Stone Cold crashing to the canvas. Zlatan quickly goes for the pin, but he only manages to secure a two-count as Austin summons his remaining strength to kick out.

Jim Ross: "Near fall! Austin kicked out!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "It's going to take a lot more than that to keep the Rattlesnake down!"

With Stone Cold still reeling, Zlatan picks up the steel chair Austin had introduced earlier. Remembering Austin's history of knee problems, Zlatan mercilessly targets the Texas Rattlesnake's surgically repaired knees with a series of brutal chair strikes.

Jim Ross: "Zlatan going after those knees, those surgically repaired knees of Stone Cold!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "Hey, it's smart strategy, J.R. Take out the knees, and you take out the Stunner!"

As if to punctuate his cruel strategy, Zlatan rams the edge of the chair right into Austin's vulnerable knees, causing Stone Cold to howl in agony.

Jim Ross: "Zlatan is taking apart Stone Cold piece by piece! If Austin can't stand, he can't fight!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "You know, J.R., for a 'punk kid with a funny accent,' Zlatan is showing some ruthless aggression!"

Laying the chair aside, Zlatan looks down at the writhing Stone Cold. A smirk crosses his face as he ponders his next move. Austin is down but not out, and Zlatan knows he has to capitalize if he wants to secure a win against one of the WWE's all-time greats.

Austin clutches his knees, his face contorted in pain. Zlatan, sensing an opportunity, gears up for what could be the final blow.

Stone Cold, using his veteran savvy, rolls out of the ring, trying to put some distance between him and Zlatan while getting blood flow back into his knees. He's pacing around, grimacing in pain but focused on his next move.

Jim Ross: "Austin's trying to regroup here, he's been through a hellacious few minutes."

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "That's the mark of a veteran, J.R. Know when to hold 'em, know when to fold 'em."

Unbeknownst to Austin, Zlatan has followed him out of the ring. Just as Stone Cold turns around, Zlatan targets his knees again with a devastating chop block, sending the Texas Rattlesnake down to the ground clutching his knee.

Jim Ross: "Oh, my God! Chop block to the back of Austin's knees! This is a merciless assault by Zlatan!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "I have to give it to him, J.R. Zlatan knows exactly what he's doing."

Wasting no time, Zlatan grabs Austin and delivers another belly-to-belly suplex, this time on the thin mats outside the ring. The impact echoes throughout the arena.

Jim Ross: "Another belly-to-belly! Right on the outside! That's gotta hurt!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "Stone Cold's in trouble, J.R. I've never seen him manhandled like this before!"

Zlatan stares down at a prone Austin, contemplating his next move. He's feeling confident, but he knows he can't underestimate the heart and resilience of Stone Cold Steve Austin.

Zlatan, seizing the opportunity, gets a firm grip around Austin's waist. He hoists the Texas Rattlesnake high above his head in a show of pure strength. The crowd gasps in anticipation.

Jim Ross: "What strength from Zlatan! What's he going to do?"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "I don't know, but this can't be good for Stone Cold!"

With a loud grunt, Zlatan drops Stone Cold onto the ringside barricades, chest and ribcage first. Austin arches his back in agony as he rolls off the barricade, clutching his chest.

Jim Ross: "By God! Stone Cold just got dropped ribs-first onto that barricade! That's got to hurt!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "You gotta give it to this kid, J.R. He's dissecting Stone Cold piece by piece!"

But Zlatan is far from done. Recognizing this could be his moment, he follows up with a flurry of well-executed martial arts strikes. His hands and feet are a blur as he targets Austin's arms, chest, and, most crucially, the weakened knees.

Jim Ross: "Look at these martial arts strikes! Zlatan is a human weapon!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "He's making sure Stone Cold will feel this match for a long, long time, J.R.!"

Austin is clearly rocked, his body marked from the relentless offense. Zlatan takes a moment to step back, allowing himself a satisfied smirk as he hears the crowd's mixed reactions. But inside the ring and outside, he knows the match won't be won until the referee counts to three or until Stone Cold taps out. And making Stone Cold Steve Austin tap is no easy feat.

Zlatan is in control, but Stone Cold is never one to go down without a fight. The stakes are high, the atmosphere electric. Who will come out on top?

Deciding it's time to take the fight back to the ring, Zlatan drags Austin up from the floor and rolls him under the bottom rope. But instead of following him in, Zlatan seems to have something else in mind.

Jim Ross: "Looks like Zlatan isn't finished punishing Austin's legs. What's he planning now?"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "Oh, I think I know, J.R., and Stone Cold is not going to like this!"

Before Austin can make it to his feet, Zlatan grabs his legs and drags him over to the ring post. With a quick but intricate maneuver, Zlatan locks Austin into a Figure 4 leg lock, using the steel post for added leverage.

Jim Ross: "My God, a Figure 4 around the ring post! The torque on Austin's knees must be unbearable!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "I told you, J.R., this kid came prepared! He's targeting Austin's weak point like a pro!"

The referee starts to count, urging Zlatan to break the hold, but under No DQ rules, the young Swede knows he has some leeway. Austin's face contorts in agony as he grabs at the mat, feeling the immense pressure on his already weakened knees.

Jim Ross: "Austin is in serious trouble here! I don't know if he can withstand much more of this!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "Well, if he can't, then he better prepare to tap out!"

Finally, after what seems like an eternity but was likely only a matter of seconds, Zlatan releases the hold and steps back, surveying his handiwork. Austin's knees are clearly bothering him now, each movement a testament to his pain tolerance.

Jim Ross: "The damage has been done. Stone Cold's knees are clearly not 100%."

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "He might not be walking after tonight, J.R.!"

Zlatan rolls back into the ring, eyeing Austin cautiously but confidently. He senses that the momentum is on his side, but he also knows that Austin has come back from worse. This match is far from over.

The crowd is on the edge of their seats. Zlatan has dominated, but Stone Cold Steve Austin is known for his incredible resilience.

Stone Cold's eyes burn with defiance as he clenches his fists, drawing from the crowd's energy. Despite the pain in his knees, he throws a barrage of right hands at Zlatan, each landing with audible impact.

Jim Ross: "Austin is fighting back! He's fighting back!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "Well, you can't ever count out the Texas Rattlesnake!"

Austin then whips Zlatan into the ropes, aiming to capitalize with a back drop. But Zlatan shows off his quick thinking; instead of going into the back drop, he halts the momentum with a swift kick to Austin's head.

Jim Ross: "What a counter from Zlatan! Austin's stunned!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "This young lion has some tricks up his sleeve!"

Seizing the moment, Zlatan quickly follows up with a double-leg takedown, grounding Austin. And then, with precise targeting, he stomps hard on both of Austin's already weakened knees. The crowd gasps, feeling the intensity of each stomp.

Jim Ross: "Zlatan is going back to the well, working on those knees. It's smart strategy!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "Strategy or not, it's downright ruthless!"

Zlatan takes a step back, letting the gravity of what he's just done sink in. Austin winces in pain but glares back at Zlatan, signaling that he's not out of this fight yet.

Jim Ross: "The look in Austin's eyes says it all. This battle is far from over!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "You're right, J.R. But at this rate, Zlatan might just steal Austin's spotlight!"

The tension in the air is electric as both men lock eyes, each knowing that the next few minutes could decide the outcome of this hard-fought battle.

Zlatan glares down at Austin, knowing that he has a prime opportunity to further incapacitate the veteran. Moving swiftly, he grabs Austin's legs and intricately weaves them into position. With a sudden twist, Zlatan locks in the Indian Death Lock, applying pressure directly to Austin's already weakened knees.

Jim Ross: "Oh, no! Indian Death Lock! That is a devastating move, especially on those injured knees!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "Looks like this 'young lion' did his homework! That's how you keep a rattlesnake down!"

The crowd watches, torn between awe and concern, as Austin's face contorts in agony. The submission move is both effective and punishing, draining Austin both physically and mentally.

Jim Ross: "The pain has to be excruciating! Austin's in real trouble here!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "He might have to tap out, J.R. I don't know how much more the Texas Rattlesnake can take!"

Austin clenches his fists, his knuckles turning white. He's searching for an escape, but the pain is almost unbearable. With each second that ticks by, Zlatan tightens the hold, pouring on the pressure, staring down into Austin's eyes as if to say, "I've got you now."

Jim Ross: "Austin's resilience is legendary, but even legends have their limits!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "Well, if Zlatan makes Austin tap, that will solidify his reputation, no doubt about it!"

Yet, just when it looks like Austin might have to tap, he begins to use his upper body strength, slowly dragging himself and Zlatan closer to the ropes.

Jim Ross: "He's inching his way to the ropes! Austin's not giving up!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "I can't believe it, J.R. How is he doing this?!"

With a final burst of energy, Austin manages to get a finger, then a hand, on the bottom rope. The referee sees it and immediately calls for Zlatan to break the hold.

Jim Ross: "He's made it! Austin's made it to the ropes!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "But at what cost, J.R.? At what cost?"

Zlatan releases the Indian Death Lock, but not without giving Austin's legs a final, spiteful wrench. He stands up and steps back, both men knowing that this match has reached its critical moment. Austin's resilience has kept him in the game, but Zlatan's tactics have done their damage.

Now, the question hanging in the air is simple yet daunting: Who will dig deeper to claim victory?

After releasing the Indian Death Lock, Zlatan senses that while Austin may be weakened, he's far from defeated.

Zlatan releases the Indian Death Lock, but not without giving Austin's legs a final, spiteful wrench. He stands up and steps back, both men knowing that this match has reached its critical moment. Austin's resilience has kept him in the game, but Zlatan's tactics have done their damage.

Now, the question hanging in the air is simple yet daunting: Who will dig deeper to claim victory?

After releasing the Indian Death Lock, Zlatan senses that while Austin may be weakened, he's far from defeated.

Zlatan seizes Austin up and hits a thrust kick to Austin's chest, knocking the breath out of him.

Jim Ross: Oh what a shot! A straight Marital arts kick from Ibrahimovic, knocking the Rattlesnake back to the mat!

With momentum at his side, he yanks Austin to his feet and whips him into the corner. Zlatan charges in after him, but the veteran Austin shows why he's one of the best, sidestepping at the last moment. Zlatan slams chest-first into the top turnbuckle, the impact reverberating throughout the ring.

Jim Ross: "Oh, what a miscalculation by Zlatan! Austin sidestepped him!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "See, J.R., that's what happens when you're a rookie facing a seasoned veteran!"

Capitalizing on Zlatan's mistake, Austin springs into action. He runs toward the ropes, bounces off, and comes charging back. Zlatan, shaken but alert, tries to counter with a clothesline. The crowd gasps as both men, running on instinct and adrenaline, manage to simultaneously hit each other with devastating clotheslines.

Jim Ross: "Double clothesline! They're both down!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "It's like an unstoppable force meeting an immovable object!"

The impact sends both men sprawling to the mat. The referee starts the ten count, his voice echoing in the arena. Austin and Zlatan lie there, temporarily spent, each using the few precious seconds to catch their breath.

Jim Ross: "The referee's count is on! Who's going to make it to their feet first?"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "This could be it, J.R. They both look out of it!"

The tension in the arena is palpable as the referee's count reaches six, then seven. Just before the eight count, both men manage to stagger to their feet, stopping the count. For a moment, they lock eyes, their expressions a mix of respect, frustration, and determination. The crowd can feel the electricity, the unspoken communication that says, "It's not over."

Jim Ross: "They're back up! Both men refusing to stay down! What a showdown!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "It's like they're reading each other's minds, J.R.!"

The two competitors continue to lock eyes, the tension between them almost palpable. This match has become about more than just victory; it's about proving who has the resilience, the toughness, and the will to continue when every fiber of their being is screaming to stop. They both know that the next move could be the difference between triumph and defeat. And in that moment, the crowd knows it too.

Jim Ross: "Ladies and gentlemen, we're witnessing a classic battle here tonight!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "And I have a feeling it's about to reach its breaking point, J.R.!"

Austin clenches his fists. Zlatan cracks his knuckles. And as if on cue, they both step forward, ready to continue this epic clash.

Jim Ross: "Folks, you can feel the atmosphere! It's electric!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "Something's gotta give, J.R., something's gotta give!"

The crowd is buzzing as both men once again collide in the center of the ring, fists flying. Austin's experience starts to show as he lands a series of hard right hands, each one snapping Zlatan's head back a little more than the last. Austin shoves Zlatan into the ropes and sends him flying across the ring with a whip. But Zlatan isn't out of this yet—he ducks under Austin's forearm shot and rebounds off the opposite ropes.

Jim Ross: "Zlatan ducks! He's coming back—"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "Wait for it—"

Before Zlatan knows what hit him, Austin catches him with a Lou Thesz press, grounding him and immediately raining down a fury of right hands on the Young Lion's face. The crowd erupts in cheers.

Jim Ross: "Lou Thesz press! Austin is unloading!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "That's why they call him the toughest S.O.B. in the WWE!"

Austin rises to his feet and, with a look of determination etched on his face, bounces off the ropes to deliver his signature elbow drops. Each impact echoes through the arena.

Jim Ross: "There's the elbow! Austin's got him!"

Austin hooks Zlatan's leg for the pin. The referee slides into position and starts the count. The crowd holds its breath.

Referee: "One! Two!"

But just before the ref's hand comes down for the third count, Zlatan manages to get his shoulder up. Austin slams his hands on the mat in frustration but gets back to his feet.

Jim Ross: "He kicked out! Zlatan kicked out!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "I gotta admit, J.R., this kid's got some fight in him!"

Austin stares down at Zlatan, perhaps starting to realize that this young upstart is more of a challenge than he initially thought. Both men are gasping for air, sweat pouring down their faces, but neither is willing to give in. The next few moments could very well decide the outcome of this hard-fought contest. Austin proceeds to to stomp another mudhole into Zlatan, matching each stomp with the crowd's rhythmic "What?" chants.

Jim Ross: "Austin is just relentless! Look at that mudhole!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "What? What? What? You've got to love it, J.R.!"

Thenpulling Zlatan back to his feet, Austin sends him flying with a whip across the ring. Zlatan ducks under a clothesline, speeds across to the other side, avoids another, and nails Austin with a flying clothesline of his own.

Jim Ross: "What agility! What athleticism!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "I can't believe it! The kid ducked Austin's clothesline and answered with one of his own!"

As if to put an exclamation point on his counter, Zlatan nips up back to his feet, arms outstretched, soaking in the cheers and roars from the crowd. But in that moment of showboating, he takes his eyes off Austin.

Jim Ross: "Oh no, don't turn your back on Austin—"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "Rookie mistake!"

In a blink, Austin capitalizes, seizing Zlatan and hitting him with one of The Rock's signature moves—a Rock Bottom. The crowd gasps as Zlatan's back slams into the mat.

Jim Ross: "Rock Bottom! Rock Bottom! Austin just hit Zlatan with a Rock Bottom!"

Austin hooks Zlatan's leg, the referee slides into place, and begins the count.

Referee: "One! Two!"

But just as the referee's hand is about to strike the mat for the third time, Zlatan kicks out, keeping his chances alive.

Jim Ross: "No, no! He kicked out again! How does this young man have anything left?"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "I can't believe it, J.R., he kicked out of a Rock Bottom! Even after that Lou Thesz Press and the elbow drops, this punk kid won't stay down!"

Austin's face registers a mixture of disbelief and respect. He thought he had Zlatan, but the Young Lion has roared back once more, proving to everyone that he is not to be underestimated. The crowd roars in anticipation, and Austin gets back to his feet, now pondering what it will take to put this resilient youngster away for good.

Getting back on his feet, he positions himself getting ready to put the match to bed.

Jim Ross: "And Now Austin's lookin' for the Stunner, he's lookin' for the Stunner!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "This could be it, J.R.! Say goodnight, punk kid!"

The crowd is on its feet as Zlatan pulls himself up, using the ropes for support. Austin is poised, coiled like a snake, ready to strike with his patented Stone Cold Stunner. As Zlatan turns around, Austin lunges forward with a kick, aiming for Zlatan's midsection.

Jim Ross: "Here it comes—"

But to everyone's amazement, Zlatan catches Austin's leg in mid-air, halting the setup for the Stunner. For a split second, Austin's eyes widen with surprise.

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "What?! He caught Austin's leg!"

Zlatan taunts Austin with a sly grin and then does the unthinkable—he hits Austin with his own finisher, the Stone Cold Stunner! The crowd erupts in a mix of shock and awe.

Jerry "The King" Lawler: AHH!

Jim Ross: "Stunner! Stunner! My God, Zlatan just hit Austin with his own Stunner!"

Wasting no time, Zlatan goes for the cover, hooking Austin's leg. The referee slides into position.

Referee: "One! Two!"

The crowd holds its collective breath, but just before the referee's hand comes down for the count of three, Austin's shoulder shoots up off the mat.

Jim Ross: "I don't believe it! Austin kicked out! The Rattlesnake's still alive!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "You have to be kidding me, J.R.! After taking his own Stunner?"

Austin's resilience shows why he's one of the all-time greats, refusing to be beaten at his own game. But the look on Zlatan's face is one of determination, not frustration. He knows he's on the verge of something big, perhaps a career-defining moment. The crowd can feel it too; the tension is palpable as both men slowly get to their feet, each contemplating their next move in this unforgettable battle.

Jim Ross: "Zlatan's got that look in his eye, King! He's calling for the Lion's Roar!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "If he hits this, it's over, J.R.!"

Zlatan heads to a corner and positions himself in the corner, stomping his foot repeatedly against the mat, signaling for his super kick finisher, the Lion's Roar. The crowd's energy is palpable, electric. Austin pulls himself to his feet, still looking dazed from Zlatan's earlier Stunner.

Jim Ross: "This could be the end of Austin!"

Zlatan charges, leaping into the air for the Lion's Roar. But Austin, with a last-second instinct, ducks under the incoming kick!

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "Austin dodged it! He dodged it!"

Quick as a rattlesnake, Austin kicks Zlatan in the midsection and lands the Stone Cold Stunner to a roaring crowd!

Jim Ross: "Stunner! Stone Cold Stunner! Stone Cold! Stone Cold!"

Austin hooks the leg for the pin. The referee gets into position.

Referee: "One! Two!"

The crowd is ready to erupt, but just as the referee's hand is about to hit the mat for the third count, Zlatan gets his shoulder up!

Jim Ross: "What in the world?! Zlatan kicked out of the Stone Cold Stunner! I can't believe what I'm seeing!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "This kid won't stay down, J.R.! He won't stay down!"

Both men are exhausted, physically and emotionally spent, but neither is willing to give in. The look on Austin's face is one of disbelief but also newfound respect for Zlatan. As both men struggle to their feet, it's clear that this match has become an instant classic, a battle that neither will forget, and a fight that will go down in the annals of WWE history.

Jim Ross: "I have never, in my years of calling wrestling matches, seen anything like this, King!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "It's a slobberknocker, J.R.! That's what it is!"

Both warriors, their bodies drenched in sweat and teetering on the brink of exhaustion, struggle to regain their footing. Stone Cold delivers a solid right-hand strike to Zlatan, and then another! A third right hand connects with precision. The crowd erupts with cheers with each powerful blow as Austin rains down the right hands on his opponent.

Jim Ross: "Austin's aiming to send Zlatan into next week!"

With a defiant gesture, Austin raises both middle fingers, taunting Zlatan as if to say, "This is the end, son!" He winds up for a massive haymaker, looking to put Zlatan away—

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "Oh, this could get ugly!"

—but Zlatan swiftly ducks under the incoming fist and, with remarkable precision, executes his Lion's Roar super kick, connecting squarely with Austin's jaw.

Jim Ross: "Oh, the Lion's Roar! The Lion's Roar!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "Oh My God!"

Jim Ross: "Zlatan almost took Austin's head off!"

Zlatan, every ounce of energy drained from him, collapses onto Austin for the pin. The referee quickly moves into position.

One! Two!

Once again, the crowd collectively holds its breath, almost willing the count to reach its conclusion. But Austin, displaying his unwavering resilience, manages to lift his shoulder just before the critical three-count.

Jim Ross: "By God, Stone Cold kicked out! What more do these men need to do to keep each other down?!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "I've never witnessed anything quite like this, J.R.! Never!"

The camera then captures Zlatan's expression, a mix of astonishment and respect, mirroring the same look Austin had moments earlier. As both men lie there, panting and gasping for air, a moment of mutual acknowledgment transpires. They realize they are each a part of something far greater than themselves—a match for the ages, a testament to determination, skill, and the enduring spirit of competition.

Jim Ross: "Ladies and gentlemen, regardless of who wins this match tonight, we're all witnesses to something extraordinary."

Indeed, in this clash of legends and rising stars, everyone involved—from the athletes to the announcers to the fans—knows they are part of WWE history in the making.

Jim Ross: "Both these men have been through an absolute war, King!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "Oh, I can't watch, J.R.! What's gonna happen?!"

Both Austin and Zlatan manage to regain their footing by using the ropes for support. With unsteady steps, they make their way toward the center of the ring, facing each other in a wobbly standoff. Austin and Zlatan, standing face to face in the center of the ring, share a gaze of mutual respect and goes for another midsection kick, aiming for a Stunner, but Zlatan seizes his leg, swiftly spins him around, and executes a Dragon Whip.

Jim Ross: "Dragon Whip! Dragon Whip!"

With seamless precision, Zlatan transitions into a Sharpshooter, reminiscent of the legendary battle between Bret Hart and Stone Cold at WrestleMania 13.

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "It's like a page out of the Bret Hart vs. Stone Cold playbook at WrestleMania 13!"

Austin clenches his teeth, determination etched on his face as he resolutely refuses to submit to the excruciating Sharpshooter. Ringside commentators Jim Ross and Jerry "The King" Lawler are on their feet, providing their electrifying commentary:

Jim Ross: "By God, Stone Cold is showing the heart of a champion! He's refusing to give in to the agony of that Sharpshooter!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "That's the Texas Rattlesnake for you, J.R.! He'd sooner pass out from the pain than tap out to Zlatan!"

The crowd roars with anticipation as Austin endures the pain, his face contorted but his spirit unbroken, creating a moment of pure wrestling drama in the center of the ring.

In a surprising twist, Zlatan does something that even Bret Hart didn't do at WrestleMania 13. He expertly bridges the Sharpshooter, applying immense pressure to Austin's already weakened legs and lower back.

Jim Ross: "Sweet Mother of God! Zlatan is bridging that Sharpshooter, targeting the legs and back that he's worked on throughout the match!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "It's a calculated move by Zlatan, taking Austin's pain to a whole new level! Can Stone Cold withstand this?"

The audience is in disbelief, witnessing this innovative and brutal twist to the classic submission move. Austin's grit and determination are put to the ultimate test as he battles through the excruciating pain of the modified Sharpshooter.

Austin's endurance reaches astonishing levels as he refuses to succumb to the relentless pain of the modified Sharpshooter. Minutes feel like hours as he hangs on, displaying unwavering resolve and an indomitable spirit. The crowd is on the edge of their seats, witnessing one of the most remarkable displays of resilience in wrestling history.

Jim Ross: "I've never seen anything like this, folks! Stone Cold's endurance is simply unbelievable!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "It's like he's tapping into some otherworldly reserve of strength, J.R. This is the stuff legends are made of!"

The atmosphere in the arena is electric, as Austin's refusal to give up becomes a testament to his legendary status in the world of professional wrestling.

Despite his superhuman effort and unwavering determination, Austin ultimately reaches his limit. The excruciating pain proves too much to bear, and with a heavy heart, he finally taps out. The crowd falls silent, witnessing the end of an incredible battle.

Jim Ross: "It's over! Stone Cold has given it everything, but he's reached his breaking point. He's tapped out!"

Jerry "The King" Lawler: "What a match, J.R.! Both these warriors left it all in the ring tonight."

As the bell rings to signal the end of the match, the fans rise to their feet, offering a standing ovation to both Austin and Zlatan for their incredible performance. It's a moment of mutual respect and appreciation for the epic contest they've just witnessed.

The referee raises Zlatan's hand, officially declaring him the victor, but there's a palpable air of respect in the arena, not a hint of gloating. Zlatan extends his hand to Austin, assisting the legend in getting back on his feet.

Howard Finkel: "Here is your winner, Zlatan Ibrahimović!"

Jim Ross: "The Lion has done the unthinkable! Zlatan Ibrahimović has made Stone Cold Steve Austin tap out!"

The audience erupts in applause, recognising the historic and hard-fought battle that has just taken place in the ring.

In a poignant moment, both Austin and Zlatan exchange a nod of profound respect—a symbolic passing of the torch from the old generation to the new. It's a silent acknowledgment of the enduring legacy of professional wrestling, where the past and present intersect, and the spirit of competition continues to thrive.

As both men exit the ring, each with a different set of emotions but with a shared, wordless understanding, the crowd stands in applause, knowing they've witnessed a match that will be talked about for generations to come.

XXXX

As Zlatan walks up the ramp and disappears behind the curtain, his face is a blend of exhaustion, relief, and triumph. The magnitude of what he's just accomplished begins to sink in. He's just made Stone Cold Steve Austin, one of the toughest S.O.B.s in the business, submit. And not just at any event, but at the King of the Ring 2002, a PPV known for defining moments and launching careers.

Backstage, the atmosphere is electric. Fellow wrestlers, some veterans and some newbies, greet him with nods and claps on the back. Even the production crew acknowledges the feat. It's a rare moment of universal respect in an industry often marked by fierce competition and politics.

As he heads toward the locker room to catch his breath and reflect, Zlatan knows that tonight was a pivotal point in his WWE journey. If the locker room and the WWE Universe had any doubts about him before, those were put to rest tonight.

The King of the Ring 2002 will be remembered for many things, but for Zlatan, it will forever be the night he earned the respect of a legend and proved that he belonged in the pantheon of WWE greats.