Jim Ross says he’s happy to see the success WWE had with SummerSlam.
On the latest edition of his Grilling JR podcast, the AEW announcer explained that a “high tide raises all ships,” using the example of his time in Mid-South Wrestling. The Hall of Famer said that when the then-WWF was undergoing its national expansion and drawing a huge audience, Mid-South’s business also received a boost.
“I’m glad [WWE] did well, a high tide raises all ships as the old saying goes. I think that’s indicative of pro wrestling especially. In the Mid-South days, when WWF at the time was kicking ass and going through their expansion, it was amazing just how much it helped Mid-South business.”
Ross is glad to see all wrestling companies doing well and believes that it’s best for wrestling fans to be fans of wrestling rather than one company or another.
“So, I’m glad that all companies are doing well, I’m glad that we’re not talking about one brand vs the other and all that s**t. Just enjoy…If you like wrestling, then like wrestling. Period.
“That’s where I am on that deal. I’m glad they did well, congratulations to them, and we hope to be able to replicate some of the same traits over at Wembley Stadium.”
JR admitted he wasn’t able to watch the whole of the event, but he did single out the match between Brock Lesnar and Cody Rhodes for praise, especially for Lesnar’s actions after losing to The American Nightmare.
“The exclamation point to that match [was] Lesnar reaching out, raising Cody’s hand, and shaking hands. You know it was just really a cool moment.”
“Cody’s on his way. All he’s building toward is the main event at WrestleMania next year in Philly, so I’m happy for Cody.”
Jim Ross returns to AEW after recent health scare
On June 16th, JR suffered a fall in his home which resulted in several injuries. While the veteran announcer made his way to the commentary booth for Collision later the same day, he had difficulty with his voice during the show and apologised to fans for his performance. He then made the decision to take time away from AEW to heal.
Ross was out of action for over a month before getting back behind his headset on the August 5th edition of Collision to help call the main event match between “Real World Champion” CM Punk and Ricky Starks.
Punk overcame Starks to retain his unofficial title after special guest referee Ricky ‘The Dragon’ Steamboat refused to count a pinfall when Starks feet were on the ropes. After the bout, Starks attacked Steamboat leading to a 30-day suspension.
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