Jim Ross

James William Ross was born on January 3, 1952, in Fort Bragg, California. He is an enrolled citizen of the Cherokee Nation, tracing his ancestry to family members who arrived in Oklahoma on the Trail of Tears.{{cite web |last=Archives |first=Phoenix |date=April 9, 2005 |title=Cherokee announcer honored |url=https://www.cherokeephoenix.org/news/cherokee-announcer-honored/article_6a27f100-0cad-5b07-bba2-17794882c48e.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231204065816/https://www.cherokeephoenix.org/news/cherokee-announcer-honored/article_6a27f100-0cad-5b07-bba2-17794882c48e.html |archive-date=December 4, 2023 |access-date=December 4, 2023 |website=cherokeephoenix.org}} In 2022, Ross sold land originally allotted to his great-great-grandfather by the Bureau of Indian Affairs.

Ross was raised in Westville, Oklahoma, where his maternal grandparents operated a general store. His paternal grandfather, Dee Ross, worked as a carpenter and owned an off-sale beer establishment.{{Citation needed|date=June 2020}} At Westville High School, Ross was active in athletics and student leadership. He played first base for the school's baseball team{{Citation needed|date=June 2020}} and was a two-time all-conference football player for the Westville Yellowjackets during the 1968 and 1969 seasons.{{cite web |last=Hoover |first=John |date=May 11, 2014 |title=Jim Ross talks about his unlikely journey |url=https://tulsaworld.com/jim-ross-talks-about-his-unlikely-journey/article_672667ae-6590-5d6e-b8d7-ca83bc74407b.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231216232503/https://tulsaworld.com/jim-ross-talks-about-his-unlikely-journey/article_672667ae-6590-5d6e-b8d7-ca83bc74407b.html |archive-date=December 16, 2023 |access-date=December 16, 2023 |publisher=Tulsa World}} He also served as student body president and earned four varsity letters in basketball.{{Citation needed|date=June 2020}}

Beyond athletics, Ross was heavily involved in the Future Farmers of America (FFA). He won the Oklahoma FFA Speech Championship in both 1968 and 1969 and placed as runner-up in the national competition in 1969.{{cite news |date=4 April 1968 |title=Westville FFA Wins Three Firsts |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/14935347/?terms=%22Jim%20Ross%22&match=1 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211127070052/https://www.newspapers.com/image/14935347/?terms=%22Jim%20Ross%22&match=1 |archive-date=27 November 2021 |access-date=26 November 2021 |work=Stilwell Democrat-Journal |location=Stilwell, Oklahoma |page=8}}{{cite news |date=8 May 1969 |title=Jim Ross Wins First In State |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/14955794/?terms=%22Jim%20Ross%22&match=1 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211127070059/https://www.newspapers.com/image/14955794/?terms=%22Jim%20Ross%22&match=1 |archive-date=27 November 2021 |access-date=27 November 2021 |work=Stilwell Democrat-Journal |location=Stilwell, Oklahoma |page=9}}{{cite news |last1=Langley |first1=Mrs. W F |date=21 August 1969 |title=Westville; Jim Ross Places Second |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/5226205/?terms=%22Jim%20Ross%22&match=1 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211127070053/https://www.newspapers.com/image/5226205/?terms=%22Jim%20Ross%22&match=1 |archive-date=27 November 2021 |access-date=26 November 2021 |work=Stilwell Democrat-Journal |location=Stilwell, Oklahoma |page=8}} That same year, he was elected treasurer of Oklahoma Boys State{{cite news |date=12 June 1969 |title=Westville Youth Named Treasurer |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/14957315/?terms=%22Jim%20Ross%22&match=1 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211127070057/https://www.newspapers.com/image/14957315/?terms=%22Jim%20Ross%22&match=1 |archive-date=27 November 2021 |access-date=27 November 2021 |work=Stilwell Democrat-Journal |location=Stilwell, Oklahoma |page=5}} and was nominated by Representative Wiley Sparkman to serve as a page in the Oklahoma House of Representatives.{{cite news |date=17 April 1969 |title=Boys Serve As Pages in Legislature |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/14954683/?terms=%22Jim%20Ross%22&match=1 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211127070054/https://www.newspapers.com/image/14954683/?terms=%22Jim%20Ross%22&match=1 |archive-date=27 November 2021 |access-date=26 November 2021 |work=Stilwell Democrat-Journal |location=Stilwell, Oklahoma |page=8}} In 1970, he received the FFA State Degree—the organization's second-highest honor—and was elected vice president of the FFA Northeast District.{{cite news |date=23 April 1970 |title=Two Get FFA Award |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/5226561/?terms=%22Jim%20Ross%22&match=1 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211127070056/https://www.newspapers.com/image/5226561/?terms=%22Jim%20Ross%22&match=1 |archive-date=27 November 2021 |access-date=27 November 2021 |work=Stilwell Democrat-Journal |location=Stilwell, Oklahoma |page=6}}{{cite news |date=5 March 1970 |title=Jim Ross is FFA Candidate |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/5226493/?terms=%22Jim%20Ross%22&match=1 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211127070053/https://www.newspapers.com/image/5226493/?terms=%22Jim%20Ross%22&match=1 |archive-date=27 November 2021 |access-date=27 November 2021 |work=Stilwell Democrat-Journal |location=Stilwell, Oklahoma |page=8}}{{cite news |date=11 June 1970 |title=Westville FFA'er Attends Meeting |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/5226633/?terms=%22Jim%20Ross%22&match=1 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211127070054/https://www.newspapers.com/image/5226633/?terms=%22Jim%20Ross%22&match=1 |archive-date=27 November 2021 |access-date=27 November 2021 |work=Stilwell Democrat-Journal |location=Stilwell, Oklahoma |page=8}} He was also named honorable mention center on the Tulsa World's 1969 Oklahoma High School All-State Football team.

Academically, Ross was inducted into the National Honor Society as a sophomore and received recognition for maintaining a 3.6 GPA during his junior year.{{cite news |date=27 April 1967 |title=Jim Ross Named 'Farmer' Of Month |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/5792780/?terms=%22Jim%20Ross%22&match=1 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211127080742/https://www.newspapers.com/image/5792780/?terms=%22Jim%20Ross%22&match=1 |archive-date=27 November 2021 |access-date=27 November 2021 |work=Stilwell Democrat-Journal |location=Stilwell, Oklahoma |page=6}}{{cite news |date=6 March 1969 |title=Untitled |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/14952435/?terms=%22Jim%20Ross%22&match=1 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211127080741/https://www.newspapers.com/image/14952435/?terms=%22Jim%20Ross%22&match=1 |archive-date=27 November 2021 |access-date=27 November 2021 |work=Stilwell Democrat-Journal |location=Stilwell, Oklahoma |page=8}} After high school, he remained involved in athletics by officiating high school and college baseball, football, and basketball games across Oklahoma for 18 years.{{cite news |last=Saviers |first=Dale |date=3 July 1992 |title=Westville's Ross Joins Falcons' Booth |url=https://www.oklahoman.com/story/news/1992/07/03/westvilles-ross-joins-falcons-booth/62488692007/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240202143454/https://www.oklahoman.com/story/news/1992/07/03/westvilles-ross-joins-falcons-booth/62488692007/ |archive-date=2 February 2024 |access-date=22 March 2022 |publisher=The Oklahoman}}

While attending Northeastern State University, Ross gained early broadcasting experience by working for the college radio station.{{cite web |last=Encarnacao |first=Jack |date=23 March 2007 |title=Recap of Jim Ross' speech at MIT |url=http://www.f4wonline.com/?aID=19019 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081208100515/http://www.f4wonline.com/?aID=19019 |archive-date=2008-12-08 |access-date=2007-03-25 |publisher=Wrestling Observer}} This background led to his entry into professional wrestling commentary when he was offered a position with the local NWA Tri-State promotion, stepping in for an announcer who was unexpectedly unavailable for an event.

Ross began his career with the promotion in 1974 as a referee, a role he held until 1977 before transitioning to the broadcast team. Following Bill Watts’s acquisition of NWA Tri-State in 1982 and its rebranding as Mid-South Wrestling (later Universal Wrestling Federation), Ross was promoted to lead play-by-play announcer. He also assumed administrative responsibilities as the promotion’s Vice President of Marketing.{{cite web |title=Jim Ross' former WWE profile |url=http://www.wwe.com/superstars/raw/jim_ross/profile.jsp |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20041127040610/http://www.wwe.com/superstars/raw/jim_ross/profile.jsp |archive-date=2004-11-27 |access-date=2008-05-20 |publisher=WWE}} During his tenure, he called his first NWA World Heavyweight Championship match, featuring Ric Flair and Ted DiBiase.{{citation needed|date=December 2019}}

In 1987, following Jim Crockett Jr.’s acquisition of the Universal Wrestling Federation and its merger with Jim Crockett Promotions, Ross joined the newly combined organization as a color commentator. He worked alongside David Crockett and Tony Schiavone and was soon promoted to lead play-by-play announcer for the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA).

Ross continued in this role as JCP was rebranded to World Championship Wrestling (WCW) after its sale to media mogul Ted Turner. Following WCW’s departure from the NWA in 1991, Ross was paired with longtime NWA commentator Bob Caudle. Around this time, Ross briefly expanded into mainstream sports broadcasting, serving as a commentator for one season of Atlanta Falcons radio coverage in 1992.{{citation needed|date=December 2019}}

Over time, Ross advanced to become WCW’s head of broadcasting. However, his tenure was marked by a strained professional relationship with Eric Bischoff, a rising commentator and future executive. Ross later claimed that Bischoff effectively promoted himself to WCW's leadership, ultimately leading to a shift in internal dynamics. Conversely, Bischoff alleged that Ross had shown favoritism under the direction of then-WCW booker Bill Watts. In 1993, after Bischoff was promoted to executive producer, Ross requested and was granted a release from his contract.{{citation needed|date=December 2019}}

Although Ross had a three-year agreement with Turner Broadcasting, he opted for an immediate buyout, citing concerns that he would be sidelined from on-air work for an extended period. According to wrestler Mick Foley, Ross also resigned from WCW’s booking committee around this time.Foley, Mick. Have A Nice Day: A Tale of Blood and Sweatsocks (p.145) He officially departed WCW after being removed from television by Bischoff.Foley, Mick. Have A Nice Day: A Tale of Blood and Sweatsocks (p.238)

File:Jim Ross No Mercy 2007.jpg]]File:WWE- Birmingham 200997 (16).jpg.]]

Jim Ross joined the World Wrestling Federation (WWF, later WWE) in early 1993 and made his on-screen debut at WrestleMania IX, held at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. He replaced Gorilla Monsoon on Wrestling Challenge and worked with Bobby Heenan until Heenan’s departure later that year. Ross also called major pay-per-view events, including WrestleMania IX and King of the Ring, before Vince McMahon resumed lead commentary duties beginning with SummerSlam 1993.{{citation needed|date=December 2019}}

Ross pitched the idea for Radio WWF, a short-lived radio program where he and Gorilla Monsoon discussed wrestling news and interviewed talent. They also called select events such as SummerSlam, Survivor Series 1993, and the 1994 Royal Rumble for the broadcast.{{citation needed|date=December 2019}}

In January 1994, Ross suffered his first bout of Bell’s palsy. He was released by the company two weeks later, on February 11. Afterward, Ross worked as an announcer for Smoky Mountain Wrestling, reuniting with longtime broadcast partner Bob Caudle, and resumed duties with the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons.{{citation needed|date=December 2019}}

Ross was briefly rehired in mid-1994 during Vince McMahon’s federal trial, providing commentary on Monday Night Raw alongside Randy Savage while McMahon was absent. After McMahon's acquittal, Ross was released again, reportedly due to leaking company information. He returned once more to Smoky Mountain Wrestling.

In December 1994, Ross rejoined WWF for a third time. Initially relegated to syndicated programming, he returned to the main announce team in 1996. That September, Ross turned heel in an on-screen storyline where he claimed to be bringing back Razor Ramon and Diesel—characters previously portrayed by Scott Hall and Kevin Nash. On Raw, he delivered a worked-shoot promo criticizing Vince McMahon and introduced new performers in those roles. The angle was widely panned and dropped soon after.{{citation needed|date=December 2019}}

Following this, Ross resumed his commentary duties across various shows, including Superstars, Action Zone, Raw Is War, and Shotgun Saturday Night. In December 1998, while broadcasting Capital Carnage in London, he suffered a second Bell’s palsy attack shortly after learning of his mother’s death. He returned to Raw on March 8, 1999, in a storyline where he confronted Michael Cole, his on-air replacement. Ross claimed he had been fired because of his condition and tried to reclaim his commentary role, even setting up his own desk labeled “JR Is Raw.” The crowd support led WWE to reinstate Ross permanently, starting with WrestleMania XV.

Later that year, WCW parodied Ross’s condition through a controversial character named “Oklahoma,” portrayed by Ed Ferrara. The parody was widely criticized, and WCW discontinued it following intervention by Turner Standards and Practices. Though offended, Ross later said he did not hold Ferrara personally responsible.{{cite web |date=May 24, 2020 |title=The Ross Report #34 – Ed Ferrara |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qDJSQuGaRa8 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230301110359/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qDJSQuGaRa8&gl=US&hl=en |archive-date=March 1, 2023 |access-date=March 1, 2023 |work=Grilling JR |publisher=YouTube}}

In 2001, Ross was assigned to the commentary team for WWF’s XFL football league. Initially on regional broadcasts with Jerry Lawler, Ross was later promoted to lead the national telecast alongside Jesse Ventura after the original host, Matt Vasgersian, publicly criticized the production. Ross returned to regional broadcasts midway through the season.{{cite web |date=16 May 2011 |title=X years after |url=http://www.sportsbusinessdaily.com/Journal/Issues/2011/05/16/Leagues-and-Governing-Bodies/XFL-main.aspx |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160921124745/http://www.sportsbusinessdaily.com/Journal/Issues/2011/05/16/Leagues-and-Governing-Bodies/XFL-main.aspx |archive-date=2016-09-21 |access-date=2016-09-08 |website=www.sportsbusinessdaily.com}}

Throughout the Monday Night War, Ross became recognized as the voice of Raw, forming a legendary commentary team with Lawler. After WWE introduced a brand split in 2002, Ross worked exclusively on Raw and its pay-per-views.{{citation needed|date=December 2019}}

Outside commentary, Ross served as Executive Vice President of Talent Relations, where he was key in hiring and developing talent. He stepped away from his executive roles in 2005, citing health, family, and personal business goals.{{citation needed|date=December 2019}}

In October 2005, Ross was written off television after being “fired” by Vince and Linda McMahon. In reality, he needed time off for colon surgery. Joey Styles filled in during Ross’s recovery. Ross returned in 2006 to call Saturday Night’s Main Event XXXII, WrestleMania 22, and Backlash, and resumed his position on Raw in May after Styles exited in a storyline.{{citation needed|date=December 2019}}

File:JR and The King No Mercy 07.jpg (left) and Jim Ross (right) at the Raw commentators table.]]Ross’s contract expired in October 2006, but he continued on a week-to-week basis until signing a one-year deal in November.{{cite web |last=Ross |first=Jim |date=2006-11-23 |title=J.R. responds to Contract Signing Feedback |url=http://www.jrsbarbq.com/blog/2006/11/23/jr-responds-to-contract-signing-feedback/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070224002739/http://www.jrsbarbq.com/blog/2006/11/23/jr-responds-to-contract-signing-feedback/ |archive-date=2007-02-24 |access-date=2007-03-25}} On March 31, 2007, he was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame by "Stone Cold" Steve Austin.{{citation needed|date=December 2019}}

In the 2008 WWE Draft, Ross was unexpectedly moved from Raw to SmackDown, ending his 12-year run on the red brand. He was initially unhappy, stating he had not been informed of the decision, but later pledged to help make SmackDown the best show possible.{{cite web |last=Sitterson |first=Aubrey |date=2008-06-23 |title=A Draft Disaster |url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/06232008/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130726180217/http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/06232008/ |archive-date=2013-07-26 |access-date=2008-06-25 |publisher=World Wrestling Entertainment}}{{cite web |last=Ross |first=Jim |title=Draft Thoughts |url=http://www.jrsbarbq.com/2008/06/24/jr%E2%80%99s-post-draft-thoughts/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080627025133/http://www.jrsbarbq.com/2008/06/24/jr%E2%80%99s-post-draft-thoughts/ |archive-date=2008-06-27 |access-date=2008-06-24 |publisher=JR's Blog}}{{cite web |last=Ross |first=Jim |title=Upon Further Review |url=http://www.jrsbarbq.com/2008/06/24/upon-further-review/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110717204251/http://www.jrsbarbq.com/2008/06/24/upon-further-review/ |archive-date=2011-07-17 |access-date=2008-06-24 |publisher=JR's Blog}}

File:WWE Announcers.jpg.]]Ross made a one-night appearance on ECW in September 2008 and later became SmackDown’s color commentator alongside Todd Grisham.{{cite web |date=April 8, 2009 |title=JR's Homes from WrestleMania with random thoughts |url=http://fans.wwe.com/jimross/blog/2009/04/08/jrs_home_from_wrestlemania_with_random_thoughts |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090411111041/http://fans.wwe.com/jimross/blog/2009/04/08/jrs_home_from_wrestlemania_with_random_thoughts |archive-date=April 11, 2009 |publisher=WWE Universe}} His final full-time commentary appearance was Hell in a Cell on October 4, 2009. He suffered a third Bell’s palsy attack later that month and took a leave from broadcasting.

Ross returned sporadically over the next few years. He appeared on the Old School Raw special in 2010 and resumed commentary in early 2011 during Jerry Lawler’s feud with Michael Cole.{{cite web |title=Please login |url=http://www.pwtorch.com/members/artman/publish/TV_Reports_7/article_51376.shtml |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240202143521/https://www.pwtorch.com/amember/protect/new-rewrite?f=5&url=/artman/publish/TV_Reports_7/article_51376.shtml&host=members.pwtorch.com&ssl=on |archive-date=2024-02-02 |access-date=2011-04-27 |website=www.pwtorch.com}} He appeared at WrestleMania XXVII and other episodes of Raw, but was again "fired" in a storyline by John Laurinaitis. Ross later claimed he was not informed in advance about the firing. He returned briefly for matches and comedy segments through the remainder of 2011.{{cite web |title=WWE RAW 10/24/11 |url=http://expertscolumn.com/content/wwe-raw-102411 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130525112151/http://expertscolumn.com/content/wwe-raw-102411 |archive-date=2013-05-25}}{{cite web |title=WWE RAW 11/14/11 |url=http://expertscolumn.com/content/wwe-raw-111411 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120623071425/http://expertscolumn.com/content/wwe-raw-111411 |archive-date=2012-06-23}}

At WrestleMania XXVIII in 2012, Ross called the "End of an Era" Hell in a Cell match between The Undertaker and Triple H. He also contributed to Raw 1000 and began commentating on the revamped NXT, joining Byron Saxton and William Regal. That same year, Paul Levesque (Triple H) appointed Ross as an adviser and scout for Talent Relations. After Lawler’s on-air heart attack on September 10, Ross filled in during his recovery. He was honored in his hometown during Raw on October 1, dubbed “JR Appreciation Night”.{{cite web |last=Stephens |first=David |date=October 1, 2012 |title=Raw Results - 10/1/12 |url=http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1349147921 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121002233534/http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1349147921 |archive-date=October 2, 2012 |access-date=October 1, 2012 |publisher=WrestleView.com}}{{cite web |last=Martin |first=Adam |date=October 1, 2012 |title=WWE posts video of Jim Ross Appreciation Night |url=http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1349160911 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121010203906/http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1349160911 |archive-date=October 10, 2012 |access-date=October 1, 2012 |publisher=WrestleView.com}}

In 2013, Ross began mentoring new commentators at the WWE Performance Center. He returned for the 20th Anniversary of Raw.{{citation needed|date=December 2019}}

On August 16, 2013, Ross hosted a WWE 2K14 panel where he appeared visibly fatigued and made unscripted comments, including criticism of a sponsor. Ric Flair, also on the panel, made controversial remarks. On September 11, Ross announced his departure from WWE, stating that his contract had expired.{{cite web |author=WWE.com Staff |title=Jim Ross to retire |url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/jim-ross-to-retire |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130912173413/http://www.wwe.com/inside/jim-ross-to-retire |archive-date=September 12, 2013 |access-date=September 1, 2012 |publisher=WWE}} Though it was widely speculated that the panel led to his release, Ross later said that it was his comment about the sponsor that caused concern. He also denied being intoxicated, attributing his demeanor to Bell’s palsy-related fatigue.{{YouTube|3E3xhJpQrqw}} Vince McMahon later confirmed the situation contributed to Ross's exit but said Ross left on his own terms and there was no lingering tension between them.{{cite web |date=December 2, 2014 |title=Vince McMahon addresses CM Punk on Stone Cold Podcast |url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-news/51937-vince-mcmahon-addresses-cm-punk-on-stone-cold-podcast |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141219081855/http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-news/51937-vince-mcmahon-addresses-cm-punk-on-stone-cold-podcast |archive-date=December 19, 2014 |access-date=December 2, 2014 |publisher=WrestleView}}

On January 4, 2015, Ross and Matt Striker served as the English language commentators for Global Force Wrestling's presentation of New Japan Pro-Wrestling's Wrestle Kingdom 9 in Tokyo Dome pay-per-view.{{cite web|url=http://pwinsider.com/article/89507/jim-ross-returns-to-announcing-pro-wrestling.html?p=1|title=JIM ROSS RETURNS TO ANNOUNCING PRO WRESTLING - PWInsider.com|website=pwinsider.com|access-date=2014-11-11|archive-date=2014-11-17|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141117003828/http://www.pwinsider.com/article/89507/jim-ross-returns-to-announcing-pro-wrestling.html?p=1|url-status=live}}

On January 19, 2016, it was announced that Ross had signed to become the new lead announcer for NJPW's weekly program on AXS TV along with Josh Barnett.{{cite web|url=http://pwinsider.com/article/99119/its-official-jim-ross-returning-to-broadcast-booth.html?p=1|title=It's official: Jim Ross returning to broadcast booth|access-date=January 19, 2016|work=Pro Wrestling Insider|archive-date=February 7, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160207222924/http://pwinsider.com/article/99119/its-official-jim-ross-returning-to-broadcast-booth.html?p=1|url-status=live}} Ross's contract was directly with AXS TV and not NJPW.{{cite web|url=http://pwinsider.com/article/99149/what-jim-ross-axs-tv-deal-means-for-njpwworld-streaming-events.html?p=1|title=What Jim Ross' AXS TV deal means for NJPWWorld streaming events|access-date=January 20, 2016|work=Pro Wrestling Insider|archive-date=January 24, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160124001405/http://pwinsider.com/article/99149/what-jim-ross-axs-tv-deal-means-for-njpwworld-streaming-events.html?p=1|url-status=live}} It was revealed in November 2018 that Barnett and Ross would no longer be doing NJPW commentary.{{Cite web|url=https://411mania.com/wrestling/jim-ross-josh-barnett-njpw-axs-tv/|title=411Mania|access-date=2019-03-07|archive-date=2019-03-07|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190307173809/https://411mania.com/wrestling/jim-ross-josh-barnett-njpw-axs-tv/|url-status=live}} In 2019 the New Japan World commentary team took over broadcasting the AXS shows until the contract ended in December of that year.{{cite web|url=https://www.f4wonline.com/new-japan-news/njpw-no-longer-airing-axs-tv-300386|title=NJPW no longer airing on AXS TV|access-date=March 9, 2021|work=Wrestling Observer Figure Four Online|date=27 December 2019|archive-date=28 December 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191228163340/https://www.f4wonline.com/new-japan-news/njpw-no-longer-airing-axs-tv-300386|url-status=live}}

On October 8, 2016, Ross, along with Jim Cornette, provided commentary for What Culture Pro Wrestling's (WCPW) first iPPV, Refuse to Lose. On December 31, Ross was on commentary for the pilot episode of World of Sport Wrestling on ITV.{{cite news|url=https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/other-sports/world-of-sport-wrestling-returns-to-itv-with-wwe-s-jim-ross-as-commentator-a3374486.html|title=World of Sport Wrestling to return to ITV|date=2016-10-20|newspaper=Evening Standard|language=en-GB|access-date=2017-01-17|archive-date=2016-12-25|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161225151230/http://www.standard.co.uk/sport/other-sports/world-of-sport-wrestling-returns-to-itv-with-wwe-s-jim-ross-as-commentator-a3374486.html|url-status=live}} On February 12, 2017, Ross returned to WCPW for commentary at the iPPV, True Destiny and for WCPW's Loaded tapings that same month.{{cite AV media| url-status = live| archive-url = https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211211/3hFNBVcpcVE| archive-date = 2021-12-11| url = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3hFNBVcpcVE| title = Kurt Angle vs Alberto El Patron (True Destiny 2017) |website=YouTube}}{{cbignore}}

On April 2, 2017, at WrestleMania 33, Ross returned to WWE, providing commentary for the main event No Holds Barred match between The Undertaker and Roman Reigns. Shortly after the event, it was announced that Ross had signed a two-year deal with the company.{{cite news|url=http://www.espn.com/wwe/story/_/id/19059068/wwe-jim-ross-homecoming-wrestlemania-33|title=Jim Ross reflects on coming home to WWE at WrestleMania 33|first=Arash|last=Markazi|work=ESPN.com|publisher=ESPN, Inc.|location=United States|date=April 2, 2017|access-date=April 3, 2017|archive-date=April 3, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170403023036/http://www.espn.com/wwe/story/_/id/19059068/wwe-jim-ross-homecoming-wrestlemania-33|url-status=live}} During the summer, Ross would provide commentary, alongside Lita, for the Mae Young Classic. On the January 22, 2018, episode of Raw 25 Years, Ross would reunite with Jerry Lawler as part of the commentary team that was at the Manhattan Center in which Ross was caught by several cameras sleeping. On April 8, 2018, at WrestleMania 34, Ross called the fifth annual André the Giant Memorial Battle Royal on the WrestleMania 34 pre-show, alongside Jerry Lawler and Byron Saxton.{{Cite web|url=https://www.si.com/wrestling/2018/04/08/andre-giant-memorial-battle-royal-wrestlemana-jim-ross-jerry-lawler/|title=Jim Ross, Jerry Lawler Return to WrestleMania to Call WWE's Andre The Giant Memorial Battle Royal|publisher=Sports Illustrated|date=April 8, 2018|last=Barrasso|first=Justin|access-date=February 19, 2021|archive-date=October 24, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201024155331/https://www.si.com/wrestling/2018/04/08/andre-giant-memorial-battle-royal-wrestlemana-jim-ross-jerry-lawler|url-status=live}} Ross's last televised appearance for WWE was part of the pre-show panel for the Greatest Royal Rumble on April 27, 2018.{{Cite web|url=https://www.prowrestling.com/jerry-lawler-and-jim-ross-at-greatest-royal-rumble/|title=Jerry Lawler and Jim Ross At Greatest Royal Rumble (Photo), Carmella Fires Back At Fan, Sasha Banks Training (Video)|publisher=prowrestling.com|date=April 27, 2018|last=Wilkinson|first=Matthew|access-date=February 19, 2021|archive-date=March 11, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210311043754/https://www.prowrestling.com/jerry-lawler-and-jim-ross-at-greatest-royal-rumble/|url-status=live}}

Ross left WWE on March 27, 2019, after electing not to renew his contract.{{Cite web|url=https://www.tmz.com/2019/03/07/jim-ross-leaving-wwe/|title=Jim Ross Leaving WWE, 'I Need to Move On'|website=TMZ|date=7 March 2019 |language=en|access-date=2019-03-13|archive-date=2019-03-12|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190312183036/https://www.tmz.com/2019/03/07/jim-ross-leaving-wwe/|url-status=live}} Ross stated that the reason for his WWE departure was because, "I had two bookings in 2018 and they weren't using me very much".{{cite web|url=https://www.wrestlinginc.com/news/2019/03/jim-ross-on-the-main-reason-why-he-leaving-wwe-652269/|title=Jim Ross On The Main Reason Why He's Leaving WWE|date=March 22, 2019|access-date=August 11, 2021|archive-date=August 11, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210811064620/https://www.wrestlinginc.com/news/2019/03/jim-ross-on-the-main-reason-why-he-leaving-wwe-652269/|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|url=https://comicbook.com/wwe/news/jim-ross-why-is-he-leaving-wwe/|title=Jim Ross Explains Why He Is Leaving WWE, Negotiating With AEW|date=March 23, 2019|access-date=August 11, 2021|archive-date=August 11, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210811064758/https://comicbook.com/wwe/news/jim-ross-why-is-he-leaving-wwe/|url-status=live}} Ross also attributed that another factor in his departure was Ross stating himself that, "I still think I can do play-by-play even though others that may surround Vince think I can't ".{{cite web|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/2019/03/08/jim-ross-leaving-wwe/3101639002/|title=Jim Ross leaving WWE at end of month: 'I need to move on'|website=USA Today|date=March 8, 2019|access-date=August 11, 2021|archive-date=August 12, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210812001928/https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/2019/03/08/jim-ross-leaving-wwe/3101639002/|url-status=live}} In August 2019, Ross later revealed what he said to Vince McMahon before he left, stating "Vince, unlike you I still believe I can do it and there are other people who believe I can do it including some of your audience".{{Cite web|url=https://www.ringsidenews.com/2019/08/30/jim-ross-on-what-he-told-vince-mcmahon-before-leaving-wwe/|title=JIM ROSS ON WHAT HE TOLD VINCE MCMAHON BEFORE LEAVING WWE|date=August 30, 2019|access-date=August 11, 2021|archive-date=August 11, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210811065245/https://www.ringsidenews.com/2019/08/30/jim-ross-on-what-he-told-vince-mcmahon-before-leaving-wwe/|url-status=live}}

File:Forbidden Door (AEW x NJPW) (52292654123).jpg in 2022]]

On April 3, 2019, it was announced that Ross had signed a three-year deal with All Elite Wrestling (AEW) as a commentator and senior advisor. Ross initially provided full-time commentary on the broadcast team on AEW Dynamite and occasionally part-time commentary on AEW Rampage.{{cite web|url=https://nypost.com/2019/05/22/aew-is-giving-jim-ross-the-chance-that-wwe-wouldnt-i-started-disappearing/|title=AEW is giving Jim Ross the chance that WWE wouldn't: 'I started disappearing'|date=May 22, 2019|access-date=August 18, 2021|archive-date=August 18, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210818222616/https://nypost.com/2019/05/22/aew-is-giving-jim-ross-the-chance-that-wwe-wouldnt-i-started-disappearing/|url-status=live}} On the January 5, 2022, episode of Dynamite, Ross returned to TBS for the first time since 1993. In June 2022, Ross switched from full-time commentary on Dynamite to full-time commentary on Rampage in a commentary team rotation swap with Taz.{{cite web|url=https://www.ringsidenews.com/2022/06/30/jim-ross-being-moved-to-rampage-in-aew-commentary-shakeup/|title=JIM ROSS BEING MOVED TO RAMPAGE IN AEW COMMENTARY SHAKEUP|date=30 June 2022|access-date=9 October 2022|archive-date=9 October 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221009104721/https://www.ringsidenews.com/2022/06/30/jim-ross-being-moved-to-rampage-in-aew-commentary-shakeup/|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://wrestlingheadlines.com/aew-experimenting-with-commentary-team-rotation-jim-ross-calling-fridays-rampage/|title=AEW Experimenting With Commentary Team Rotation, Jim Ross Calling Friday's Rampage|date=30 June 2022|access-date=9 October 2022|archive-date=9 October 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221009105829/https://wrestlingheadlines.com/aew-experimenting-with-commentary-team-rotation-jim-ross-calling-fridays-rampage/|url-status=live}}

On June 17, 2023, Ross tweeted an image showing a black eye he had suffered due to a fall, he worked at the debut episode of AEW Collision but later announced that he would be stepping away to heal.{{Cite web |last=Pizzazz |first=Manolo Has |date=2023-06-18 |title=Jim Ross to step away from AEW to heal |url=https://www.cagesideseats.com/aew/2023/6/18/23765425/jim-ross-aew-hiatus |access-date=2023-06-19 |website=Cageside Seats |language=en |archive-date=2023-06-19 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230619065659/https://www.cagesideseats.com/aew/2023/6/18/23765425/jim-ross-aew-hiatus |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Currier |first=Joseph |date=2023-06-17 |title=Jim Ross suffers black eye in fall, still set for AEW Collision |url=https://www.f4wonline.com/news/aew/jim-ross-suffers-black-eye-in-fall-still-set-for-aew-collision |access-date=2023-06-19 |website=WON/F4W - WWE news, Pro Wrestling News, WWE Results, AEW News, AEW results |language=en |archive-date=2023-06-19 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230619114802/https://www.f4wonline.com/news/aew/jim-ross-suffers-black-eye-in-fall-still-set-for-aew-collision |url-status=live }}

On August 5, 2023, Ross returned to the AEW Collision commentary team, and has since only provided commentary as an analyst for the main events in the second hour of AEW Collision.{{cite web|url=https://www.f4wonline.com/news/aew/jim-ross-returns-to-commentary-booth-on-aew-collision|title=Ross had been recovering from a fall since June.|date=August 5, 2023|access-date=August 23, 2023|archive-date=August 24, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230824020333/https://www.f4wonline.com/news/aew/jim-ross-returns-to-commentary-booth-on-aew-collision|url-status=live}}

Following his further surgery in February 2024, Ross returned on March 3, 2024, for Revolution to commentate Sting's retirement match.{{Cite web |title=Opening Match For AEW Revolution 2024 Revealed, Jim Ross Returning Tonight {{!}} Rajah.com |url=https://rajah.com/ |access-date=2024-03-05 |website=rajah.com |language=en}} In August 2024 he recorded separate sit-down interviews with Bryan Danielson and Swerve Strickland ahead of their match at All In.{{Cite web |last=Jay |first=Ella |date=2024-08-09 |title=Video: Jim Ross Interviews Swerve Strickland On AEW Dynamite Ahead Of All In |url=https://www.wrestlinginc.com/1639508/ideo-jim-ross-interviews-swerve-strickland-aew-dynamite-ahead/ |access-date=2024-08-17 |website=Wrestling Inc. |language=en-US}} Later that month he revealed he had broken his wrist although he expected to call the match at All In.{{Cite web |last=G |first=Joey |date=2024-08-17 |title=Jim Ross Says He Will Be Calling Swerve Strickland vs. Bryan Danielson at AEW All In |url=https://wrestlingheadlines.com/jim-ross-says-he-will-be-calling-swerve-strickland-vs-bryan-danielson-at-aew-all-in/ |access-date=2024-08-17 |website=Wrestling Headlines |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |date=2024-08-16 |title=Jim Ross Confirms Status For AEW All In |url=https://itrwrestling.com/news/jim-ross-confirms-status-for-aew-all-in/ |access-date=2024-08-17 |website=itrwrestling.com |language=en-GB}} On August 25, 2024, Ross commentated during the main event between Danielson and Strickland at All In.{{Cite web |title=Jim Ross On AEW All In 2024: This Is A Bucket List Weekend For Me {{!}} Fightful News |url=https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/jim-ross-aew-all-2024-bucket-list-weekend-me |access-date=2024-08-27 |website=www.fightful.com |language=en}} He also returned on September 7, 2024, for the All Out main event and unsanctioned matches.{{Cite web |title=Jim Ross On Swerve Strickland vs. Adam Page IV At AEW All Out: It's Gonna Be A Bloodbath {{!}} Fightful News |url=https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/jim-ross-swerve-strickland-vs-adam-page-iv-aew-all-out-it-s-gonna-be-bloodbath |access-date=2024-09-11 |website=www.fightful.com |language=en}}

In 1992, Ross joined the Atlanta Falcons radio broadcast team. However, he would leave after one season, but had a second stint with the Falcons in 1994.{{cite news|url=https://411mania.com/wrestling/411s-wrestling-hall-of-fame-class-of-2010-jim-ross/|title=411's Wrestling Hall of Fame Class of 2010: Jim Ross|first=Jeremy|last=Thomas|publisher=411 Mania|date=18 June 2010|access-date=22 March 2022|archive-date=17 June 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220617093227/https://411mania.com/wrestling/411s-wrestling-hall-of-fame-class-of-2010-jim-ross/|url-status=live}}

Ross made his debut calling boxing on May 26, 2014, for Golden Boy Promotions on Fox Sports 1.{{cite web|url=http://www.badlefthook.com/2014/5/27/5756242/wwe-hall-of-famer-jim-ross-grades-his-own-boxing-commentary-debut|title=Jim Ross on boxing debut: 'I had a lot of fun'|date=27 May 2014|access-date=14 May 2015|archive-date=18 May 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150518092516/http://www.badlefthook.com/2014/5/27/5756242/wwe-hall-of-famer-jim-ross-grades-his-own-boxing-commentary-debut|url-status=live}}

Ross teamed up with MMA fighter and UFC veteran Chael Sonnen to commentate the Battlegrounds MMA one night tournament PPV on October 3, 2014.{{cite web|url=http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2220343-jim-ross-chael-sonnen-excel-at-battlegrounds-one|title=Jim Ross, Chael Sonnen Excel at Battlegrounds O.N.E.|first=Jeremy|last=Botter|website=Bleacher Report|access-date=2015-05-14|archive-date=2015-05-18|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150518224512/http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2220343-jim-ross-chael-sonnen-excel-at-battlegrounds-one|url-status=live}}

In 2014 Ross began hosting his own podcast The Ross Report for PodcastOne. It was later relaunched as part of the Westwood One podcast network in 2018 as The Jim Ross Report.{{cite web |title=Jim Ross is following Chris Jericho to Westwood One |url=https://www.cagesideseats.com/wwe/2018/3/26/17164018/jim-ross-podcast-moving-westwood-one |website=Cageside Seats |date=26 March 2018 |access-date=5 March 2019 |archive-date=6 March 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190306044842/https://www.cagesideseats.com/wwe/2018/3/26/17164018/jim-ross-podcast-moving-westwood-one |url-status=live }} In April 2019, Ross partnered with wrestling podcaster/mortgage lender Conrad Thompson to revamp his podcast as Grilling JR, with a new format of reminiscences about Ross's history in wrestling, much in the same style as Thompson's podcasts with Bruce Prichard, Eric Bischoff, Tony Schiavone,

Kurt Angle, Jeff Jarrett and Arn Anderson.{{cite web |title=Grilling JR: Details On Jim Ross' New Podcast With Conrad Thompson |url=https://www.sescoops.com/grilling-jr-podcast-jim-ross-conrad-thompson/ |website=SE Scoops |date=11 April 2019 |access-date=20 May 2019 |archive-date=2 February 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240202143613/https://www.sescoops.com/news/grilling-jr-podcast-jim-ross-conrad-thompson |url-status=live }}

Although Ross's career has predominantly been as a commentator, Ross has participated in matches, with some notable success, including a victory over Triple H in a no-disqualification match in 2005 (albeit with help from Batista).{{cite web|url=https://www.wrestlezone.com/news/233847-wwe-raw-results-april-18-2005|title=WWE Raw Results (April 18th, 2005)|date=18 April 2005|access-date=November 7, 2022|archive-date=7 November 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221107123917/https://www.wrestlezone.com/news/233847-wwe-raw-results-april-18-2005|url-status=live}}

Another notable in-ring appearance by Ross was in a tag team match with broadcast partner Jerry "The King" Lawler against Al Snow and Jonathan Coachman at the 2003 Unforgiven pay-per-view, with their Raw broadcast jobs on the line. They lost the contest to Snow and Coachman due to interference by Chris Jericho, however two weeks later Ross and Lawler regained their jobs when Ross defeated Coachman in a Country Whippin' match, using a stunner as a finishing maneuver. Ross has participated in more matches alongside Lawler, including a few with hardcore stipulations. In 2011, Ross competed against Michael Cole on the April 25 episode of Raw, where he defeated Cole by disqualification after Cole's manager for the match, Jack Swagger, attacked Ross while he had Cole mounted and was landing punches on him.{{cite web|url=https://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-raw-results/23066-raw-results-4-25-11/|title=WWE Raw Results (April 25th, 2011)|date=25 April 2011|access-date=November 7, 2022|archive-date=7 November 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221107123914/https://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-raw-results/23066-raw-results-4-25-11/|url-status=live}}

Ross has been involved in numerous other conflicts with other competitors as well such as Triple H, Val Venis, Jack Swagger, Vladimir Kozlov, Mankind, and Steve Austin, Ross has been bloodied in a match by then-Raw General Manager Eric Bischoff, and was even set on fire by Kane. Ross even main-evented the WWF's first-ever show from the Georgia Dome in Atlanta, Georgia, an episode of Raw is War that took place on October 11, 1999. Ross teamed with Steve Austin to take on WWF Champion Triple H and his partner Chyna.{{cite web |title=WWE Network |url=https://watch.wwe.com/episode/Raw-5736 |website=watch.wwe.com |publisher=WWE |access-date=10 December 2019 |archive-date=10 December 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191210155042/https://watch.wwe.com/episode/Raw-5736 |url-status=live }}

As part of storylines, Ross has been regularly targeted by Vince McMahon in rather harsh circumstances throughout his time with WWE: most notably in 2005 when Vince McMahon's character, Mr. McMahon, featured in a series of segments which made fun of Ross's legitimate colon surgery. This has been seen as form of bullying towards Ross by fans.{{cite news|url=https://www.sportskeeda.com/wwe/5-things-you-may-not-remember-vince-mcmahon-has-done-on-screen-wwe/2|title=5 things you may not remember Vince McMahon has done on-screen in WWE|work=Sports Keeda|first=Divesh|last=Merani|date=November 30, 2020|access-date=September 5, 2021|archive-date=September 5, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210905232150/https://www.sportskeeda.com/wwe/5-things-you-may-not-remember-vince-mcmahon-has-done-on-screen-wwe/2|url-status=live}}

In 2011, after his firing as an announcer by John Laurinaitis, he returned to team up with John Cena to face Michael Cole and Alberto Del Rio in a tag team match on Raw in a winning effort.{{cite news|url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/899220-wwe-raw-review-101711-john-cena-alberto-del-rio-battle-before-vengeance|title=WWE Raw Review (10/17/11): John Cena and Alberto Del Rio Battle Before Vengeance|work=Bleacher Report|first=Mike|last=Shannon|date=October 18, 2011|access-date=September 5, 2021|archive-date=September 5, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210905232150/https://bleacherreport.com/articles/899220-wwe-raw-review-101711-john-cena-alberto-del-rio-battle-before-vengeance|url-status=live}}

Ric Flair claims he introduced Ross to his late wife, Jan.{{cite web|url=http://kotaku.com/a-possibly-drunk-ric-flair-made-this-wwe-2k14-panel-ext-1168525339|title=A Possibly-Drunk Ric Flair Made This WWE 2K14 Panel Extra-Entertaining|first=Stephen|last=Totilo|date=19 August 2013|access-date=26 August 2013|archive-date=22 August 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130822075322/http://kotaku.com/a-possibly-drunk-ric-flair-made-this-wwe-2k14-panel-ext-1168525339?|url-status=live}} Ross writes in his autobiography that Ric Flair was present on an airplane when he first met Jan who was a flight attendant. He has two daughters from two previous marriages and two granddaughters.{{cite web|url=http://www.shareholder.com/wwe/ReleaseDetail.cfm?ReleaseID=111700|title=WWE Corporate|access-date=2007-08-24|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070929120500/http://www.shareholder.com/wwe/ReleaseDetail.cfm?ReleaseID=111700|archive-date=2007-09-29|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=http://www.jrsbarbq.com/blog/2007/09/26/life-in-the-bar-b-q-fast-lane-sooner-football-steve-austin-legends-roundtable-autographed-cookbooks-selling-like-%e2%80%9cq%e2%80%9d-jr-to-ou-colorado-game-your-feedback/|title=J.R.'s Blog " Life In The Bar-B-Q Fast Lane.. Sooner Football.. Steve Austin.. Legends Roundtable.. Autographed Cookbooks Selling Like "Q".. J.R. to OU-Colorado Game.. Your Fe...|access-date=2007-09-26|archive-date=2007-10-11|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071011041359/http://www.jrsbarbq.com/blog/2007/09/26/life-in-the-bar-b-q-fast-lane-sooner-football-steve-austin-legends-roundtable-autographed-cookbooks-selling-like-%E2%80%9Cq%E2%80%9D-jr-to-ou-colorado-game-your-feedback/|url-status=live}} He cites Steve Austin and Jerry Lawler as his closest friends.

Ross lives with Bell's palsy, which sometimes temporarily paralyzes his facial muscles. The symptoms first occurred on January 30, 1994.{{Sfn|Ross|O'Brien|Williams|2017|p=237-239}} In late 1998, following the death of his mother, Ross took a break from WWE Raw as the effects of his grief reportedly aggravated his palsy;{{Sfn|Ross|O'Brien|Williams|2017|p=312-313}} Michael Cole filled in for him.{{citation needed|date=December 2019}}

In 2007, encouraged by sales of his line of barbecue sauces and beef products, Ross opened up J.R.'s Family Bar-B-Q in Norman, Oklahoma.{{cite journal|title=Amazing But True.|journal=WWE Magazine|issue=16|page=13|date=October 2007}} The restaurant closed in May 2010.{{cite news|url=https://www.sescoops.com/2010/05/jim-ross-bbq-restaurant-shuts-down/|title=JR's BBQ Restaurant Shuts Down, Big Changes Ahead|work=SEScoops|first=Brad|last=Davis|date=May 17, 2010|access-date=September 5, 2021|archive-date=September 5, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210905232153/https://www.sescoops.com/2010/05/jim-ross-bbq-restaurant-shuts-down/|url-status=live}} Ross is also a fan of Skyline Chili and has mentioned them in connection to Cincinnati numerous times on AEW programming.{{cite tweet|number=1435309466866569219|user=JRsBBQ|title=Road Trip…Chicago to Cincy and the great @Skyline_Chili 🤠@AEWonTNT|date=7 September 2021}}

Ross is an avid Oklahoma Sooners fan and a regular football season ticket holder. This is reflected in his entrance music, which is "Boomer Sooner" (the Sooners' fight song). He can be spotted at some Sooners home games, and when the Sooners play top teams around the country.{{cite tweet|user=RosinskiBill|author=Bill Rosinski|number=11219966334337024|date=5 December 2010|title=With the great JR from WWE fame at the Big 12 title game http://yfrog.com/ei1kij}} In 2014, he became FoxSports.com's Contributor for NCAA Football and Oklahoma Sooners.{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zd_N_4-QsDQ|title=Jim Ross: 'No prima donnas in Oklahoma Sooners locker room'|last=FOX Sports|date=20 September 2014|via=YouTube|access-date=21 September 2014|archive-date=9 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160309215359/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zd_N_4-QsDQ|url-status=live}} On the February 23, 2021, episode of his YouTube series Grilling J.R., Ross stated that The Sopranos is his favorite TV show and that he still would occasionally watch it.{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wa5smI68REs|title=Jim Ross shoots on The Sopranos|author=Grilling JR|publisher=YouTube|date=23 February 2021|access-date=6 January 2022|archive-date=6 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220106154256/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wa5smI68REs&gl=US&hl=en|url-status=live}}

On March 21, 2017, Ross's wife Jan was involved in a vehicle accident, suffering serious head injuries. She was put on life support, and she died two days later.{{Cite web|url=https://www.foxsports.com/wwe/story/jim-ross-wife-jan-dies-from-injuries-after-accident-032217%3famp=true|title=WWE News & Rumors|access-date=2020-06-16|archive-date=2019-03-13|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190313024324/https://www.foxsports.com/wwe/story/jim-ross-wife-jan-dies-from-injuries-after-accident-032217?amp=true|url-status=live}}

Ross had an eye operation in 2018 that greatly affected his eyesight in one eye.{{Cite web|url=http://www.gerweck.net/2018/03/09/jim-ross-underwent-eye-surgery/|title=Jim Ross underwent eye surgery - Gerweck.net|website=www.gerweck.net|date=9 March 2018|access-date=2018-06-06|archive-date=2018-06-14|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180614034754/http://www.gerweck.net/2018/03/09/jim-ross-underwent-eye-surgery/|url-status=live}}

On October 23, 2021, Ross tweeted that he had skin cancer as he was on his way to AEW Dynamite.{{cite tweet|number=1451940807833964550|user=JRsBBQ|title=On my way to Orlando for tonight's @AEW Dynamite. Skin cancer confirmed. Waiting on radiologist study to determin…|access-date=2021-10-23|language=en|date=23 October 2021}} On December 29, 2021, Ross tweeted that he was cancer free.{{cite tweet|number=1476233642695598081|user=JRsBBQ|title=I'm CANCER FREE! We did it! See you tonight on #AEWDYNAMITE at 8 ET! 🙏🙏🤠|access-date=2021-12-29|language=en|date=29 December 2021}} On February 1, 2024, Ross once again posted that he had undergone successful cancer surgery on his right hip.{{Cite web |last=Jayaram |first=Nishant |date=2024-02-02 |title=AEW's Jim Ross Announces He's Undergone Successful Cancer Surgery |url=https://www.wrestlinginc.com/1507935/aew-jim-ross-announces-hes-undergone-successful-cancer-surgery/ |access-date=2024-02-04 |website=Wrestling Inc. |language=en-US}}

In the film Man on the Moon, Ross played Lance Russell (Memphis weekly wrestling show's lead announcer) announcing the match between Andy Kaufman (played by Jim Carrey) and Jerry "The King" Lawler.{{citation needed|date=December 2019}}

Ross also has a recurring role on the Amazon Prime Video original Paradise City as Ned.

Ross was one of the original lead announcers of the original XFL in spring 2001.[https://ftw.usatoday.com/2018/01/vince-mcmahon-xfl-first-game-video Schwartz, Nick. "The first game in XFL history was a disaster," USA Today, Thursday, January 25, 2018.] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210318205957/https://ftw.usatoday.com/2018/01/vince-mcmahon-xfl-first-game-video |date=March 18, 2021 }} Retrieved January 27, 2021

Ross has also provided his voice for many WWE video games, and is also an unlockable character in WWE '12, WWF WrestleMania 2000, WWF No Mercy and many more.{{citation needed|date=December 2019}}

In October 2014, he appeared in "Brian and the Boz", a 30 for 30 documentary on fellow Oklahoman Brian Bosworth.{{Cite web |last=Priyadharshini |first=Oviya |date=2023-11-10 |title=Brian and the Boz: 30 for 30: Where to Watch & Stream Online |url=https://www.comingsoon.net/guides/news/1330913-brian-and-the-boz-30-for-30-where-to-watch-stream-online |access-date=2024-02-19 |website=ComingSoon.net |publisher=Evolve Media |language=en-US}} Three years later, he appeared in another 30 for 30 documentary, this time about Ric Flair.{{Cite web |last=Fishman |first=Scott |date=2017-11-08 |title=7 Most Shocking Ric Flair Moments from ESPN's '30 for 30: Nature Boy' |url=https://www.tvinsider.com/648942/ric-flair-nature-boy-30-for-30-espn/ |access-date=2024-02-19 |website=TV Insider |publisher=NTVB Media |language=en-US}}

Ross has written two WWF/WWE themed cook books Can You Take The Heat? The WWF Is Cooking and J.R's Cookbook released in 2000 and 2003 respectively.

His autobiography Slobberknocker was released on October 3, 2017.{{cite web |url=http://www.wrestlinginc.com/wi/news/2016/1112/619280/details-on-jim-ross-slobberknocker-autobiography/ |title=Jim Ross releases Slobberknocker biography |last=Middleton |first=Marc |date=12 November 2016 |website=Wrestlinginc |access-date=12 November 2016 |archive-date=13 November 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161113035601/http://www.wrestlinginc.com/wi/news/2016/1112/619280/details-on-jim-ross-slobberknocker-autobiography/ |url-status=live }} The foreword for the new autobiography was written by Vince McMahon. The book includes a letter from McMahon to Ross from when Ross was sick for the second time with Bell's Palsy.{{Cite web|url=https://www.fightful.com/jim-ross-talks-about-asking-vince-favor-calling-some-best-matches-all-time-and-his-future-wwe|title=Jim Ross Talks About Asking Vince For A Favor, Calling Some Of The Best Matches Of All Time, And His Future In WWE {{!}} Fightful Wrestling|website=www.fightful.com|language=en|access-date=2017-09-25|archive-date=2017-09-26|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170926041951/https://www.fightful.com/jim-ross-talks-about-asking-vince-favor-calling-some-best-matches-all-time-and-his-future-wwe|url-status=live}}{{Sfn|Ross|O'Brien|Williams|2017|p=314-315}}

Ross's second book and further autobiography Under the Black Hat: My Life in the WWE and Beyond, co-written with Paul O'Brien, was published in March 2020. On May 7, 2024, Ross and O'Brien released a second book, Business Is About to Pick Up!.{{Cite web |last=Wilkinson |first=Matthew |date=2024-05-08 |title=Best Jim Ross Announcing Calls In His New Book |url=https://www.thesportster.com/best-jim-ross-announcing-calls-new-book/ |access-date=2024-05-08 |website=TheSportster |language=en}}{{Cite web |date=2024-05-07 |title=Jim Ross on Unforgettable Night at Sting's Last Match–and His New Book |url=https://www.si.com/fannation/wrestling/jim-ross-sting-last-match |access-date=2024-05-08 |website=Wrestling On Fannation |language=en-US}}

Ross has also created a range of J.R.'s BBQ sauces and mustard which have been inspired by his own culinary knowledge and that of his close family.{{cite web| url = https://www.craftyconnoisseur.co.uk/crafty-food| url-status = dead| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180916202119/https://www.craftyconnoisseur.co.uk/crafty-food| archive-date = 2018-09-16| title = Boutique Gin In UK {{!}} Edinburgh {{!}} Crafty Connoisseur}}

Ross has been labeled as the greatest wrestling commentator of all time.{{cite web |date=2 April 2011 |title=Good 'Ol J.R. To Announce At WrestleMania, & More WM News |url=http://www.24wrestling.com/jim-ross-at-wrestlemania-27-more/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160503133309/http://www.24wrestling.com/jim-ross-at-wrestlemania-27-more/ |archive-date=3 May 2016 |access-date=25 September 2011}} Ryan Dilbert from the Bleacher Report has stated "Ross also brought searing passion and a love of the wrestling business to Mid-South Wrestling, WWE and World Championship Wrestling.{{cite web|url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/1770486-examining-jim-ross-legacy-following-retirement-from-wwe/|title=Examining Jim Ross' Legacy Following Retirement from WWE|website=Bleacher Report|date=11 September 2013|access-date=11 January 2021|archive-date=12 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210112141918/https://bleacherreport.com/articles/1770486-examining-jim-ross-legacy-following-retirement-from-wwe/|url-status=live}} To hear a match with Ross on the call was to watch wrestling morph into poetry, for the scripted action to feel real, meaningful and unforgettable. Debating the greatest pro wrestling commentator comes down to two men, Ross and Gordon Solie. As for the greatest in WWE history, there is no debate Ross stands alone".

Professional wrestling booker and promoter and colleague, Eric Bischoff, has praised and been critical of Ross, stating, "Jim was in upper-management, had a lot of influence, was participating in the booking during WCW's worst days, and he still didn't have management of the company. So I'm not saying he wasn't capable, necessarily. But he certainly didn't have a track record that he could point to and say look, this is what I did over here."{{cite web|url=https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/eric-bischoff-jim-ross-never-had-resume-showing-he-could-run-promotion|title=Eric Bischoff: Jim Ross Never Had A Resume Showing That He Could Run A Promotion|publisher=fightful.com|date=May 17, 2020|access-date=February 4, 2021|archive-date=March 11, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210311043256/https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/eric-bischoff-jim-ross-never-had-resume-showing-he-could-run-promotion|url-status=live}} Bischoff also further reiterated that Ross, "worked very closely with Bill Watts, which is one of the biggest train wrecks in the history of professional wrestling. So it's not like Jim came in with a résumé that would make one think he would be the ideal candidate to run a wrestling company. Jim is the best announcer, probably on planet Earth. Jim had a tremendous amount of experience and had seen a lot, but he'd never done it."

WWE Hall of Famer and Legend Stone Cold Steve Austin has praised Ross stating, "Jim Ross, to me, with his range, with his storytelling, he paid his dues. I mean, he learned from the ground up. And his inflection and his ability to watch a match, tell a story, get the talent over with the credibility that he had, he was the shining diamond on top of everyone, so always a good experience with Jim".{{cite web|url=https://www.wrestlinginc.com/news/2018/11/steve-austin-reveals-how-jim-ross-affected-his-career-647773/|title=Steve Austin Reveals How Jim Ross Affected His Career|date=November 13, 2018|access-date=May 27, 2021|archive-date=April 13, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210413231426/https://www.wrestlinginc.com/news/2018/11/steve-austin-reveals-how-jim-ross-affected-his-career-647773/|url-status=live}}

File:Jim Ross HOF.jpg in 2007]]

• Cauliflower Alley Club
• Art Abrams Lifetime Achievement Award (2010){{cite web|url=https://slamwrestling.net/index.php/2010/04/22/ross-dibiase-lead-parade-of-honorees-at-cac-banquet/|title=Ross, DiBiase lead parade of honorees at CAC banquet|last=Johnson|first=Steven|date=2010-04-22|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer|access-date=2010-04-22|archive-date=2021-01-19|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210119111909/https://slamwrestling.net/index.php/2010/04/22/ross-dibiase-lead-parade-of-honorees-at-cac-banquet/|url-status=live}}
• Jim Ross Announcer Award (2024){{Cite web |title=JIM ROSS TO BE HONORED BY CAULIFLOWER ALLEY CLUB WITH INAUGURAL...JIM ROSS AWARD! {{!}} PWInsider.com |url=https://www.pwinsider.com/article/184951/jim-ross-to-be-honored-by-cauliflower-alley-club-with-inauguraljim-ross-award.html?p=1 |access-date=2024-06-21 |website=www.pwinsider.com}}
• George Tragos/Lou Thesz Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame
• Lou Thesz Award (2011){{cite web|url=https://slamwrestling.net/index.php/2010/11/15/tragos-thesz-hof-to-honour-funk-jr-monsoon-ross-duggan/|title=Tragos/Thesz HOF to honour Funk Jr., Monsoon, Ross, Duggan|last=Oliver|first=Greg|website=Slam! Wrestling|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer|date=November 15, 2010|access-date=August 28, 2018|archive-date=March 11, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210311043626/https://slamwrestling.net/index.php/2010/11/15/tragos-thesz-hof-to-honour-funk-jr-monsoon-ross-duggan/|url-status=live}}
• Gordon Solie Award (2022){{cite web| url = https://pwinsider.com/article/150407/first-three-honorees-named-for-2022-thesztragos-professional-wrestling-hall-of-fame.html| title = FIRST THREE HONOREES NAMED FOR 2022 THESZ/TRAGOS PROFESSIONAL WRESTLING HALL OF FAME {{!}} PWInsider.com| access-date = 2021-09-08| archive-date = 2021-09-03| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210903201523/https://pwinsider.com/article/150407/first-three-honorees-named-for-2022-thesztragos-professional-wrestling-hall-of-fame.html| url-status = live}}
• National Wrestling Alliance
• NWA Hall of Fame (Class of 2016){{cite web|url=http://pwinsider.com/article/101201/nwa-announces-2016-hall-of-fame-class.html?p=1|title=NWA announces 2016 Hall of Fame class|work=Pro Wrestling Insider|access-date=2016-04-08|archive-date=2016-04-11|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160411122846/http://pwinsider.com/article/101201/nwa-announces-2016-hall-of-fame-class.html?p=1|url-status=live}}
• Pro Wrestling Illustrated
• Stanley Weston Award (2002){{cite web|url=http://www.100megsfree4.com/wiawrestling/pages/pwi/pwiedit.htm |title=Pro Wrestling Illustrated Award Winners |access-date=2008-05-31 |publisher=Wrestling Information Archive |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110103211804/http://www.100megsfree4.com/wiawrestling/pages/pwi/pwiedit.htm |archive-date=2011-01-03 }}
• World Wrestling Entertainment/WWE
• WWE Hall of Fame (Class of 2007){{cite news|url=https://www.miamiherald.com/sports/fighting/article2179994.html|title=WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross teaming with former UFC fighter Chael Sonnen for Battleground MMA: 'O.N.E.'|work=Miami Herald|date=September 20, 2014|access-date=September 5, 2021|archive-date=September 5, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210905232151/https://www.miamiherald.com/sports/fighting/article2179994.html|url-status=live}}
• Slammy Award for "Tell Me I Did Not Just See That" Moment of the Year (2011) – {{small|Rapping during the "Michael Cole Challenge"}}{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2011-12-12/exclusive-slammy-awards-2011|title=WWE.com Exclusive Slammy Awards 2011|access-date=April 28, 2018|publisher=WWE|archive-date=2016-03-28|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160328003324/http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2011-12-12/exclusive-slammy-awards-2011|url-status=live}}
• Wrestling Observer Newsletter
• Best Television Announcer (1988–1993, 1998–2001, 2006–2007, 2009, 2012){{cite journal| last=Meltzer | first=Dave | author-link = Dave Meltzer| date = January 30, 2012| title = Jan 30 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Gigantic year-end awards issue, best and worst in all categories plus UFC on FX 1, death of Savannah Jack, ratings, tons and tons of news| journal = Wrestling Observer Newsletter| location = Campbell, California | issn = 1083-9593}}{{cite journal | last = Meltzer | first = Dave | author-link = Dave Meltzer | date = January 23, 2013 | title = The 2012 Wrestling Observer Newsletter Annual Awards Issue | journal = Wrestling Observer Newsletter | location = Campbell, California | issn = 1083-9593 | url = http://www.f4wonline.com/component/content/article/110-wrestling-observer-newsletter/29425-the-2012-wrestling-observer-newsletter-annual-awards-issue | access-date = January 24, 2013 | archive-date = April 25, 2020 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20200425050241/https://www.f4wonline.com/ | url-status = dead }}
• Worst Feud of the Year (2005) {{small|vs. McMahon family}}
• Wrestling Observer Newsletter Hall of Fame (Class of 1999){{citation needed|date=December 2019}}

{{Clear}}

{{Reflist}}

• {{Cite book|last=Foley|first=Mick|author-link=Mick Foley|title=Have A Nice Day: A Tale of Blood and Sweatsocks|publisher=HarperCollins|year=2000|isbn=0-06-103101-1|page=511}}
• {{Cite book|title=Slobberknocker: My Life in Wrestling|last1=Ross|first1=Jim|last2=O'Brien|first2=Paul|last3=Williams|first3=Scott|publisher=Sports Publishing|year=2017|isbn=978-1-683-58113-0 |location=New York}}

{{commons category}}

{{Wikiquote}}

• {{Official website|https://www.jrsbbq.com/}}
• [https://web.archive.org/web/20190504203120/https://www.jrsbarbq.com/ J.R's Family Bar-B-Q]
• [http://www.westwoodonepodcasts.com/pods/grilling-jr/ Grilling JR] on Westwood One Podcast Network
• {{IMDb name|id=0743525|name=Jim Ross}}
• {{WWE superstar}}
• {{Professional wrestling profiles}}

{{s-start}}

{{succession box|title=Raw lead announcer|before=Vince McMahon|years=1997–2008|after=Michael Cole}}

{{succession box|title=SmackDown lead announcer|before=Michael Cole|years=2008–2009|after=Todd Grisham}}

{{succession box|title=Dynamite lead announcer|before=Inaugural|years=2019–2022|after=Excalibur}}

{{succession box|title=Rampage lead announcer|before=Excalibur|years=2022–2023|after=Excalibur}}

{{s-end}}

{{All Elite Wrestling}}

{{NWA Hall of Fame}}

{{WWE Hall of Fame}}

{{Authority control}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Ross, Jim}}

Category:1952 births

Category:21st-century American non-fiction writers

Category:All Elite Wrestling personnel

Category:American bloggers

Category:American color commentators

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Category:Living people

Category:Northeastern State University alumni

Category:People from Westville, Oklahoma

Category:People from Fort Bragg, California

Category:American professional wrestling announcers

Category:Professional wrestling podcasters

Category:American professional wrestling referees

Category:Sportspeople from Norman, Oklahoma

Category:Wrestling Observer Newsletter award winners

Category:WWE executives

Category:WWE Hall of Fame inductees

Category:XFL (2001) announcers

Category:Cherokee Nation sportspeople