Photo Credit-Sports Illustrated
During the last week of November, Jim Ross revealed he will be stepping away from the announce desk for a month to undergo radiation treatment for his skin cancer. I wish JR all the best during his recovery, and decided to write this article to recognize his legacy. Between the cowboy hat, coming out to Boomer Sooner, Jim Ross has built a brand as one of the legends of the wrestling industry.
Jim Ross started as a part of the wrestling industry in 1974, starting as a referee in the NWA Tri-State Area. He soon transitioned to the announce desk, becoming a natural fit. Over the next fifteen years, good ol’ JR would work for the NWA, Mid-South Wrestling, and WCW. These early years Jim Ross established himself as having a true talent for announcing, becoming the head of broadcasting for WCW. Unfortunately a falling out between him and executive producer Eric Bischoff led to his release and move to the WWF.
For the better part of twenty years, Jim Ross was a staple of the WWF/E, being the play-by-play announcer. JR was a part of the New Generation, Ruthless Aggression, and PG Eras of the WWE. However most importantly, Jim Ross was the voice of the Attitude Era. He was able to call some of the most important wrestling moments in history, from Undertaker throwing Mankind off the cell to Austin’s heel turn at WrestleMania 17. He soon became synonymous with WWE and is seen as the greatest wrestling announcer of all time.
Jim Ross wasn’t a one trick pony either, as he was the Head of Talent Relations for the Federation. JR had an eye for talent, discovering and recruiting some of the most infamous names in WWE history. He recruited the likes of Mick Foley, The Rock, Steve Austin, John Cena, Chris Jericho, Edge, along with many others.
Despite his advanced age, Jim Ross shows no signs of slowing down. After a short run with NJPW as a play-by-play announcer, he has now found a role in All Elite Wrestling.
Even though Jim has not wrestled in any serious capacity, he has found a way to become a wrestling icon through dedication and perseverance. JR has almost fifty years in the industry, and continues to fight through adversity. Whether it’s Bell’s palsy or skin cancer, nothing can slow down this Oklahoman and we wish him a speedy recovery.
