Jim Ross Thinks It’s A ‘Weak Argument’ To Say AEW Signs Too Many Former WWE Superstars

WWE Hall Of Famer Jim Ross is a veteran in the pro wrestling world, as he made a name for himself being a commentator in WWE and delivering some of the most iconic moments in the history of pro wrestling.

AEW Dynamite made its debut in October 2019 and since then has strived to provide an alternate product to what fans see in WWE. For the most part, it has succeeded, but there is still a lot of room for improvement.

One of the most common complaints from fans when it comes to AEW is them hiring several former WWE Superstars. While speaking on his Grilling JR podcast, Jim Ross addressed fans complaining that AEW simply hires too many ex-WWE talents.

Jim Ross stated that it is a weak argument, adding that the main goal is to make sure the pro wrestling business is healthy.

“It’s a weak argument. ‘They’re WWE lite.’ I don’t agree with that, and I’m not knocking WWE. I had 26 great years there and I’m not anti-WWE. I don’t feel like we’re in a wrestling war. The war is AEW against its self – getting our young guys to continue to evolve and get better. I think we’re seeing that. Some of your homegrown kids are starting to find their way. There’s a big difference in working in PWG or an indie show and working a match on a national television show. It’s a different mindset and a different ballgame…..I just believe we’ve got some talent and I love watching the evolution of it.”

“That’s what we all want – we all want the business to be healthy. The trickle down if someone gets hot. It’s good for all of us. Everybody gets a share in some of that newfound or renewed enthusiasm. I want Ring of Honor to do well, or Impact. I still enjoy watching New Japan. They give you some really great matches. I’d love to see Okada in a big pay-per-view main event for AEW someday, and who’s to say that can’t happen? We have a good relationship with the New Japan office. I think that somewhere down the road, one would assume when travel issues are lessened, having an AEW presence in New Japan in big shows seems to be a likely move.”

With AEW’s latest acquisitions being the likes of Andrade El Idolo and Malakai Black, it is unlikely the company will stop hiring former WWE Superstars anytime soon.

Do you agree with what Jim Ross said? Sound off in the comments below!

h/t to 411Mania for the quotes.