In a display of school pride and pop culture homage, a North Texas football player reignited memories of a WWE legend, sparking viral attention and school spirit.
Story Highlights
- Keviyan Huddleston of UNT mimicked ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin’s iconic celebration.
- The celebration occurred after a crucial fumble recovery against Army.
- UNT’s connection to Austin enhances the celebration’s resonance.
- The viral moment underscores the blend of sports and entertainment culture.
Keviyan Huddleston’s Viral Celebration
During a high-stakes game on September 20, 2025, University of North Texas defensive lineman Keviyan Huddleston captured national attention with an electrifying tribute to WWE legend “Stone Cold” Steve Austin. Following a fumble recovery against Army, Huddleston mimicked Austin’s famous beer celebration on the sidelines. This act, complete with a Mean Green-decorated WWE-style belt and two cans, was a nod to Austin’s wrestling persona and UNT’s alumni pride.
Steve Austin, a UNT alumnus, played football before ascending to WWE fame. His iconic celebration—smashing two cans and miming pouring beer over himself—became synonymous with his wrestling career. Huddleston’s choice to replicate this move not only celebrated a pivotal game moment but also honored a piece of UNT’s legacy, resonating deeply with fans familiar with the university’s history.
Gimme A Hell Yeah: North Texas Paying Homage To Stone Cold Steve Austin Is Easily The Best Celebration In The Sport https://t.co/HFtKtCLmTo pic.twitter.com/TCYWKXxvOD
— Barstool Sports (@barstoolsports) September 20, 2025
Impact on UNT and College Football Culture
The celebration quickly went viral, amplifying UNT’s visibility and generating widespread media coverage. The Mean Green’s victory over Army, which improved their record to 4-0, added to the celebratory atmosphere. This moment underscored the power of integrating school history with popular culture, enhancing the university’s brand and engaging its community.
UNT’s football program is known for its creative turnover celebrations, a common practice in college football that enhances team spirit and fan engagement. Huddleston’s homage to Austin stands out due to its direct tie to a notable alumnus, offering a unique twist on traditional celebrations.
Future Implications and Community Response
The viral success of Huddleston’s celebration has sparked discussions about the potential for it to become a recurring tradition at UNT. For students, alumni, and fans, this act strengthens school identity and fosters a sense of pride and connection to the university’s storied history. It also serves as a model for other programs seeking to leverage unique aspects of their heritage for cultural and marketing gains.
The broader response to Huddleston’s celebration has been overwhelmingly positive, with sports commentators and fans lauding its originality and cultural significance. As a result, UNT continues to receive increased attention for both its athletic performance and its ability to resonate culturally with a wide audience.
Watch the report: UNT Football Star Celebrates Fumble Like Stone Cold Steve Austin! – YouTube
Sources:
North Texas football player pulls off epic ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin beer celebration
North Texas football player pulls off epic ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin beer celebration
Epic ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin beer celebration by North Texas football player
Gimme a Hell Yeah: North Texas paying homage to Stone Cold Steve Austin
