Good God almighty, Jim Ross beat cancer.
During a recent episode of his Grilling JR podcast, the legendary pro wrestling announcer revealed that he is now cancer-free after undergoing surgery to treat colon cancer. The 73-year-old admitted that he was “scared to death” following his initial diagnosis, but is now hopeful that he’ll be able to help call the AEW All In pay-per-view at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas, on July 12.
“I don’t think it’s too ambitious. I think it’s realistic,” Ross said. “I’m hopeful that that’s what happens. I’d love to be a part of that event and see the fans and see the talents. You know, I miss the talents a lot. I’ve been kind of isolated here at home and between that and my doctor’s appointments, it’s just one of those things man where you don’t expect to get ever get cancer and I sure as hell didn’t expect to get it and the colon cancer is serious business.
“I’m just glad I came through it without any complications and I’m very blessed in that regard… I’m feeling pretty good actually, so I hope to make it to Texas. My plan is to be there so we’ll have to kind of wait and see. I’d love to show up and do a match or two.”
In another episode of his podcast that was released on Thursday, Ross offered plenty of praise for AEW owner and president Tony Khan.
“I’m very indebted to AEW for hiring me and bringing me on board. And Tony Khan has been amazingly wonderful during my illness,” the WWE Hall of Famer said. “He supported me wholeheartedly and I really do appreciate that. That’s the way a boss should act, should do is take care of your people. And Tony Khan has certainly taken good care of me, and I plan on being reciprocal and doing my best to take care of him in my role going forward.”
Should Jim Ross be able to make an appearance — let alone call a match — at All In, it would certainly make for a memorable moment at what already promises to be one of the biggest shows in AEW history. But regardless of whether or not that happens, the most important news here is the Good Ol’ JR is cancer-free. And whether it’s in Arlington next month or further down the line, all indications are that business is about to pick up.
About Ben Axelrod
Ben Axelrod is a veteran of the sports media landscape, having most recently worked for NBC's Cleveland affiliate, WKYC. Prior to his time in Cleveland, he covered Ohio State football and the Big Ten for outlets including Cox Media Group, Bleacher Report, Scout and Rivals.