The legendary commentator may be calling it a day within the next year.
Questions over Jim Ross’ AEW future have been prevalent for much of his run with the company. For medical reasons, the 72-year-old has made sporadic appearances behind the All Elite Wrestling desk, and many wondered whether he was going to step away from the company when his deal expired in February. However, he has since signed a new one year deal to continue working under Tony Khan.
During an episode of his Grilling JR podcast, Jim Ross was asked whether his new one year contract extension signalled his last 12 months behind the commentary desk, with the legend stating that it was realistic to expect the next year to be to be his last as an announcer.
“I think so. It’s realistic to think that. I’m 72 years old, I feel good, I get healthier every day, which is great, but I have to think realistically this could be my last year and more than likely will. It’s to be determined. That’s between me, my health, and Tony Khan. Right now it’s a good plan because I’m essentially working, as I understand, pay-per-views only. That’s where you’ll find me, as the plan goes, as we speak. As we know, in pro wrestling, things change and could be different, but I don’t think so with this occasion. I think it’s what I’ll be doing, and that’s fine with me. I get to go to big shows, call big matches on big shows. Tony Khan has a good feel for what he’d like me to do, and my skill set. Right now, my situation is, I’m going to be married to the pay-per-views. That’s good. Maybe it’ll help the buy rates a bit. Storytelling will be a little sounder and different,”
-Jim Ross
Ross is perhaps the most legendary announcer in wrestling history, and has been with All Elite Wrestling since 2019. Most recently, he returned to the company to call the final two matches of AEW Revolution, including The Icon Sting’s final match, and it appears he is still set to feature on any upcoming pay-per-view.
As always, we’ll aim to provide any further updates on Jim Ross’ AEW status as we hear more.
H/T to Fightful for the transcription.
