Jim Ross Can Picture Michael Cole Retiring From WWE

Jim Ross is a WWE Hall of Famer with decades of experience in the business. He’s seen a lot of people come and go, but few have been able to stand the test of time on commentary alongside Ross like Michael Cole.

For years, Michael Cole has discussed the idea of leaving the WWE commentary table to take a spot backstage. It’s doubtful that Michael Cole would ever leave WWE entirely, but crazier things have happened in the past.

During his Grilling JR podcast, the WWE Hall of Fame announcer discussed the idea that he might commentate pro wrestling into his 80s. He was able to turn his situation into talking about Michael Cole, who has a much different family situation at home.

“Well, you know, to each his own. I’m in a situation, and we’ve talked about this before. It’s a unique thing to be alone. It’s a unique thing to have your life partner not with you, speaking of Jan, so I work because I still love pro wrestling and I love having somewhere to go every week.”

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“Michael’s in a different situation. He’s got a family at home. He’s got a wonderful wife. I’m sure he saved his cash.”

“He always was thrifty, and that’s good. I don’t know how much longer he’s gonna go, but I don’t perceive that as a shot at me whatsoever. Look, when I was his age, I would have never thought that good old JR would be doing a weekly show at 71 years old. Not many have done this. I do it for my own mental health, and I do it because I love it.”

“This is gonna sound horrible, but I still think I’m pretty damn good at it, at least I try to be. I didn’t look at it as a personal thing whatsoever. I like Michael. He’s a good friend. We exchange texts from time to time. When I hear him do something I think is really, really good, I’ll let him know because that’s what we all should do in our business.” 

Sadly, Jim Ross lost his wife, Jan, in a terrible accident in 2017. She died while riding her scooter home from the gym and a vehicle struck her. Her loss is still a great one, and the pro wrestling world was there for Ross as he mourned her passing.

Michael Cole recently admitted that his family doesn’t even watch WWE, so he is able to keep his work life and personal life separate. This is a blessing for him that allows Cole a chance to really decompress when he gets home. We’ll have to see how much longer he wants to keep up the WWE grind.

What’s your take on Michael Cole’s future in WWE? Who would replace him if he retires? Sound off in the comments!