Felix Upton on August 31, 2023
When AEW signed Jim Ross all those years ago, it was seen as a big get for the new company. Jim Ross established them in a lot of fans’ eyes, as he brought legitimacy to the company for a lot of fans who grew up hearing his voice call the action in the ring. Now, Jim Ross’ time in AEW could be over if they can’t work out a new deal.
We previously reported that Jim Ross is currently in the middle of contract talks with AEW. That being said, we have not heard that the two came to any agreement yet.
During Grilling JR, the WWE Hall of Famer spoke about his current situation with AEW. He is 71-years-old, and he believes that he can still perform at a “pretty decent” level right now. In the end, it’s not up to him whether AEW can work out a deal with his agent.
“I’m 71 years old. I can’t do this forever. I feel like my work is pretty decent right now. My voice is strong. I don’t want to sit home, but you know, it takes two to tango.”
“Like I said, I don’t know what the expectations are of me in an AEW world. I said before and I’ll stick with the same story because it’s true, and that is, you know, it’s up to Tony Khan in large part and Barry Bloom, who’s my agent. You know, Barry Bloom represents The Young Bucks, I think Hangman Page, Kenny Omega.”
“I think he represents Don Callis, who’s doing a good job. I have fun with Don calling him a miserable prick, but he kind of likes it and it fits him. He’s done a good job as a heel manager. Barry represents a lot of guys, which means to me that Barry has good communication with AEW. Now whether we get a deal done or we don’t get a deal done in time, you know, remains to be seen, and if it works out, then I’m in, and if it doesn’t work out, I’m out. It’s that simple.”
“I’m not being nonchalant or cavalier about it. It’s just, that’s the reality. I’ve negotiated too many contracts to know how these things can or cannot work, but hopefully it’ll work out well. That’s what I want. I want to stay there. We’ll just have to wait and see. I mean, I’m not being flippant, and I’m serious about it, but you know, I can’t wave a magic wand and say, ‘Okay, here’s my deal and here’s what I will do.’ I haven’t made any demands at all, but I like the challenge of building Collision into a good show, a watchable show.”
“I also think it’ll be a short negotiation. I’m very signable right now in that regard. So we’ll see. You know, I’m optimistic it’s gonna work out okay, but if it doesn’t, then you’ll be seeing me more on the autograph circuit and things of that nature. You never know what else might pop up. So I’m just, as Minnie Pearl would say, ‘I’m just proud to be here.'”
Barry Bloom is a heavy-hitter, for sure, and he recently landed “NBA money” with The Elite’s new deals. Only time will tell if Bloom can help AEW and Good old JR work something out.
Jim Ross is beloved in the pro wrestling world, and he can always stay busy with appearances. That being said, he doesn’t want to leave the commentary booth, nor is he ready to hang up his hat.
What’s your take on Jim Ross in AEW? Should the company ink him to a new deal? Sound off in the comments to let us know what you’re thinking!
August 31, 2023 12:13 pm
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