jim Ross’s Heartfelt Return to the AEW Commentary Booth
Legendary commentator Jim Ross recently shared his deeply personal experience returning to the AEW Dynamite broadcast booth on January 3, 2026. The show, held at the BOK Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma – Ross’s home state – marked a significant moment for the veteran announcer, allowing him to call the entire two-hour event. His reflections, shared on his popular Grilling J.R. podcast, reveal a night filled wiht nostalgia, renewed energy, and gratitude.
A “Feel-Good Moment” Rooted in History
Ross described the evening as a “feel-good moment,” promptly connecting it to the formative years of his career. He recounted how the experience evoked memories of his early days working alongside wrestling pioneers Bill Watts and Leroy McGuirk. These figures were instrumental in shaping the regional wrestling scene in Oklahoma and beyond,and Ross’s return to Tulsa brought those foundational experiences full circle. The emotional resonance wasn’t lost on him, as family – including his children and grandchildren – were present to witness the occasion.
“Oh, it was great. I had a great time. My kids were there, a couple of my grandkids were there. So, it was good,” Ross said. “I think it took a minute to get settled in. I didn’t know what to expect, to be honest with you, but my natural instincts took over, and I had a lot of fun. That’s the key thing. That’s the key thing about doing commentary. If you don’t have fun doing it, it’s not gonna work for you.”
From Limited Role to Full Broadcast: A Testament to Stamina and Trust
Initially,Ross was slated to provide commentary for only the two main event matches. However, AEW’s Mike Mansury recognized the value of having Ross’s voice throughout the entire broadcast and extended the opportunity to cover the full show. This decision came after a period where Ross had expressed concerns about his stamina, following a recent health challenge. Though, Ross rose to the occasion, demonstrating his enduring passion and professional resilience.
He emphasized that the energy of the live event was incredibly revitalizing. The roar of the crowd and the dynamic action in the ring reignited his enthusiasm for commentary, allowing him to deliver a performance that exceeded expectations. This speaks to the enduring power of live wrestling and the unique connection between performers and their audience.
The Importance of Trust and Support
Ross also highlighted the unwavering support he receives from AEW President Tony Khan. he shared a story about receiving a congratulatory text message from Khan at 1:30 AM the morning after the broadcast, a gesture that underscored Khan’s genuine recognition for Ross’s contributions. This level of respect and communication is crucial in fostering a positive working relationship and ensuring that talent feels valued.
“I’m very blessed to still be a part of the AEW family, and working for Tony Khan is absolutely a blessing, without question,” ross added. This sentiment reflects a broader trend in AEW, where Khan has prioritized creating a collaborative and supportive environment for both established veterans and rising stars.
Looking Ahead: Orlando and Beyond
Ross’s next scheduled appearance is set for the January 21, 2026, episode of Dynamite in Orlando, Florida, at the Addition Financial Arena.Khan is strategically utilizing Ross’s talents, prioritizing his health and well-being while capitalizing on his unique ability to enhance the viewing experience. This “judicious” approach demonstrates a commitment to long-term sustainability and ensures that Ross can continue to contribute to AEW for years to come.
Fans are also eagerly anticipating Ross’s potential involvement in AEW revolution, the upcoming Premium Live Event scheduled for march 15, 2026, at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. The prospect of hearing his voice during a major pay-per-view event adds another layer of excitement for wrestling fans worldwide.
Key Takeaways
- Jim Ross’s return to AEW Dynamite commentary was a deeply emotional experience, connecting him to his roots in Oklahoma wrestling.
- ross successfully called the entire two-hour broadcast, exceeding initial expectations and demonstrating his enduring stamina and passion.
- The support of AEW President Tony Khan and the energy of the live audience were crucial factors in Ross’s positive experience.
- Ross will continue to appear on Dynamite in a strategically managed role, prioritizing his health and well-being.
- Fans are looking forward to his potential involvement in future AEW events, including AEW Revolution.
If you use any portion of the quotes from this article please credit Grilling J.R. with a h/t to WrestlingNews.co for the transcription. You can listen to the full episode of Grilling J.R. on official podcast platforms or follow Jim Ross on social media for his latest updates.
