D-Von Dudley Explains Why He Spoke Out on Jim Ross Racism Incident

D-Von Dudley has ended speculation about a racially offensive incident from the WWE Attitude Era—confirming on a recent podcast that Jim Ross was the one behind the hurtful remarks. But this wasn’t about canceling anyone. In fact, D-Von made it clear: this was about letting go on his own terms.

On a new episode of Duke Loves Rasslin, D-Von explained why he finally opened up about the situation after staying quiet for so long. It stemmed from a prior episode featuring Maven and Bubba Ray Dudley, where Maven pushed D-Von to say the name—and once it was out, the clip took off online. The story became viral, but the full picture wasn’t really told—until now.

“You know, this whole thing with JR… I kept quiet for a long time because I didn’t want things to get out of control,” he said. “I don’t want you guys to hate or what. Listen, if you have good vibes with JR, if you had good relationships with him, then please by all means keep those relationships.”

D-Von made it clear the interaction still affects him to this day—but he’s not looking to take Ross down. In fact, his approach is all about moving forward with peace.

“I told you and I let the cat out of the bag finally—my gripe with him and why I had an issue with him. There were times where him and I would see each other, look at each other, and I would walk away from him. I wouldn’t say anything to him.”

He continued by pointing out that even if JR doesn’t remember the exchange, it left a mark.

“Whether he remembered or not—which I think he does—but you know, it is what it is with that. I can’t go back and change it and neither can he. Like I said, I forgave him. But I don’t have to forget.”

D-Von also used the moment to send a broader message—one about truth, timing, and exposure.

“And I think it’s also good that people who are, you know, maybe prejudiced or racist know that you will be exposed one way or another. Whether it’s right away, whether it’s 10 years, 30 years from now—eventually you will be exposed, because it’s wrong.”

“You can’t judge people by the color of their skin or say remarks like that and think you’re going to get away with it. Whether you’re joking or not—it’s not a joke.”

Despite revealing Ross’ name, D-Von was very clear about one thing—he’s not looking for people to attack JR online or twist his story into hate.

“When I see him, do I speak to him? No. But that’s about it. You have your own opinion on the man—you go with that. Don’t go by what I say.”

“In other words, make your judgment of him your decision. Don’t let it be influenced by anything I’ve said. That’s my story with him. If you have a story with him, then by all means, I understand that. But if you don’t, don’t go off of what I said, because that’s my experience—not yours.”

This moment wasn’t about finger-pointing—it was about healing. D-Von chose to speak up not out of bitterness, but out of growth. And while he still carries the memory, he’s no longer carrying the weight.

Please credit Ringside News if you use the above transcript in your publication.