Noted wrestling icon Ric Flair may have come toe-to-toe with some of the sport’s most celebrated figures, yet currently, he’s not engaging with as many of these legends as he used to in the past.
On a new installment of the widely followed “Busted Open Radio” podcast, Flair shared his experiences about how the frequency and depth of his interactions have changed over time. He stated,
“So, I was having a conversation with Ashley (Charlotte) just yesterday, and I mentioned how times have tremendously changed. It might come off as amusing, but truth be told, we hardly keep in touch or have a hearty talk, like for instance with Steve [Austin]. There was a time when we used to converse weekly, even twice a week or at least monthly. Shockingly, I realize a year has already passed since I last spoke to Steve.”
“I do engage in discussions with ‘Taker now and then, cross paths with Foley at signings and HBK, but if you take a closer look, most of those stalwarts that defined the era, the generational talent, the foremost superstars, or those famously known as Mr. WrestleMania, have all faded away. We’re in an entirely different era now, guys.”
Back in 2002, Flair and Austin had experienced a major fallout shortly following Ric’s comeback to the company. They later clashed in a high-octane handicap match at the Judgment Day pay-per-view event that year.
Another high-profile feud sparked between Flair and Foley in 2006. It stemmed from some remarks made by Flair on Mick in his memoir. This led to a series of intense and gruesome matches notably at Vengeance and SummerSlam that year.
On account of his illustrious career, Ric Flair was honoured at the WWE Hall of Fame in 2008 and 2012 while Austin was accorded the same recognition in 2009. Foley joined the prestigious league in 2013.
Below you can find a sneak peek video of Ric Flair and “Stone Cold” watching the 1992 Royal Rumble Match from the Broken Skull Sessions.