Tony Schiavone believes Steven Borden has the tools to build a significant future in professional wrestling, and the veteran broadcaster is glad to play even a small role in helping him get started.
During a recent appearance on the Battleground podcast, Schiavone addressed the moment from the September 16 edition of AEW Dynamite in which he greeted Borden by saying, “It’s Steven!” The line was an intentional nod to Schiavone’s famous introductions for Borden’s father, Sting. Fans quickly took note of the call and praised it across social media, but Schiavone said the decision came together in the moment rather than as part of a long-planned bit.
For Schiavone, the choice required a brief but meaningful consideration. His relationship with Sting spans a major portion of both men’s careers, and he made clear that he did not want a tribute to Sting’s signature introduction to come across as disrespectful to one of wrestling’s most admired figures.
A Split-Second Decision On Dynamite
Schiavone recalled weighing whether he should use the phrase as Steven Borden made his appearance. He said the thought process was immediate: “Should I really do this?”
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“It’s one of those snap decisions that you make and I didn’t want to disparage his dad,” Schiavone said. “I don’t think I ever could because I’ve been tied to his career. But, I thought it was the right thing to do because the kid is trying to make his way in the business.”
The announcer ultimately decided that changing one word in the introduction was a way to recognize Borden as his own person while still acknowledging the unusual connection that follows the son of Sting into a wrestling environment. Rather than presenting Steven simply as a continuation of his father, Schiavone saw the call as an opportunity to put the spotlight on the younger Borden by name.
That distinction mattered to Schiavone. He spoke warmly about Sting, but his comments centered on Steven Borden’s attempts to forge a path for himself. Schiavone said Borden has impressed him with his appearance, athletic ability, and voice, which carries an unmistakable resemblance to Sting’s.
“He looks good. Hell, when he talks, he sounds exactly like his dad,” Schiavone said. “He’s such a great athlete.”
Schiavone’s familiarity with Borden did not begin with his AEW appearances. Before Borden entered the wrestling conversation, Schiavone had already seen him compete in another sport. Schiavone worked for the Georgia Bulldogs for many years and said he watched Steven Borden play football at the University of Kentucky.
That background gave Schiavone a perspective beyond the obvious family association. His comments did not present Borden’s potential as a matter of lineage alone. Instead, Schiavone pointed to what he has personally observed from Borden as an athlete and to the effort Borden is making to find his own footing in wrestling.
Respect For Sting Remains Central
Any mention of Sting naturally carries considerable weight for Schiavone. The broadcaster has been closely associated with Sting throughout a celebrated career, and he emphasized that his September 16 call was made from a place of genuine respect for both father and son.
Schiavone described Sting as not only a standout performer, but also one of wrestling’s finest people. In his view, that reputation is broadly understood by those who have worked in the industry.
“I have so much respect for his dad, not only as a performer but as a friend and a human being,” Schiavone said. “Sting is one of the great men in this business, anyone that has been in this business will tell you that.”
The significance of the “It’s Steven!” line comes from that history. Schiavone did not treat the familiar cadence as something to use carelessly. It is deeply connected with Sting, which is why he paused before delivering it. But Schiavone concluded that recognizing Steven Borden in that way could be a supportive gesture rather than an attempt to turn him into a copy of his father.
He also left open the possibility that the greeting could become a recurring part of Borden’s appearances. Schiavone joked that he was not sure whether AEW President Tony Khan might want him to use it every time. For now, the moment stands as a spontaneous call that resonated with viewers and generated an encouraging reaction around Borden’s progress.
Schiavone Wants To Help Borden’s Growth
Beyond the memorable commentary line, Schiavone said he recognizes the value of using his platform to help a younger talent receive attention. That is particularly important to him in Borden’s case because of the regard he has for Sting. Schiavone said he is proud that he may be able to assist Steven Borden as he begins building a career in the business.
“I’m very proud that I can maybe help his career because I think there’s a very good career ahead of Steven Borden, I really do,” Schiavone said.
It was a straightforward endorsement from one of AEW’s most recognizable voices. Schiavone did not claim that success is guaranteed, nor did he suggest that Borden’s road will be defined solely by the legacy attached to his surname. His message was that Borden has made a positive impression and possesses attributes that can serve him well as he continues pursuing opportunities in wrestling.
For Steven Borden, the connection to Sting will inevitably be noticed. Schiavone’s remarks acknowledged that reality without allowing it to overshadow Borden’s individual qualities. The announcer highlighted Borden’s athletic background, his presentation, and his desire to establish himself. The decision to say “It’s Steven!” reflected that balance: a clear recognition of where he comes from, paired with an emphasis on who he is.
Why The Call Connected With Fans
The positive fan response to Schiavone’s call illustrates why a brief piece of commentary can carry lasting impact in wrestling. The line worked because it was not a wholesale recreation of Sting’s introduction. One altered word immediately made it personal to Steven Borden while preserving the emotional familiarity associated with Schiavone and Sting.
It also arrived at a time when Borden is trying to create an identity in a highly visible setting. Schiavone’s explanation makes clear that he understood the possible sensitivities of the moment. He did not want to diminish Sting’s accomplishments or rely on nostalgia without purpose. His choice was based on the belief that Borden deserved recognition as someone attempting to earn his own place in the industry.
That perspective will likely remain important as Borden’s wrestling journey develops. A famous family name can create attention, but sustained progress depends on the performer. Schiavone’s comments focused on the traits he believes Borden brings to the table, including athleticism and a natural presence that has already caught the announcer’s eye.
There is no indication from Schiavone that he views Steven Borden as a finished product or that a single commentary call determines anything about his future. Instead, he offered a measured vote of confidence from someone who has known Sting for years and has also seen Borden’s athletic ability firsthand.
For now, “It’s Steven!” has become a small but memorable early marker in Borden’s AEW story. Schiavone’s intention was to support a young man trying to make his way in wrestling while honoring the relationship and history he shares with Sting. And based on Schiavone’s assessment, he expects Steven Borden to have plenty more opportunities to make a name for himself.
Darryl Polo
Darryl Polo is a passionate wrestling fan covering WWE, AEW, TNA and beyond. He loves great rivalries, breakout stars and the moments that keep fans talking long after the bell. How we work.