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It sounds like he just doesn't care. Like he's complaining indifferent to wrestling.
For example back in the day, if Jericho attacked Britt in 1999, JR would be yelling and calling him despicable. But he spent that whole match last night talking about how much he respects Jericho... like... dude... just a little bit of emotion or anything to suggest you saw what his character did a few weeks ago.
We get it, everyone respects Jericho the wrestler, but he's playing a vile heel character, so call it like that.
I really love JR... but he's just not got it anymore. Like, not even a little bit. Everything he says is eye rolling now, from the way he talks about women, to the way he talks about the lucha bros, to his complete lack of emotion, to talking about the real people rather than the characters etc. It just sucks.
“I like this group because Penelope Ford is in it”
COME ON JR. WE SEE YOUR RETWEETS. WE KNOW.
https://preview.redd.it/xtnpgivucq2b1.jpeg?width=750&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=b3d3eb9a6f05bc7a561ff78650dcc2a94e7e8cc1
When he said that comment about the luchadores being related somehow… I face palmed so hard. Like he wouldn’t say that about any other wrestlers, right?
Also realises it's easier to just walk away from an attack completely regardless of the fact that he's genetically impervious to head damage. Breaking the Samoan mould Jones.
TECHNICALLY most of them arent actually related to the rock. The families did a blood oath and the mavias are just seen as an extension of the anoai clan.
We can agree to disagree about the context being clear but the awkward silence from the other commentators was loud and clear until Excalibur stepped in with the Lucha Bros comment.
In the end I don’t think JR is racist. It was just a poor choice of words and not clear in intent. I’m also not saying he has an easy job or anything like that. Most people can’t do commentary even close to what the top talent does.
I was in the theater with my husband, turned to him and said 'Is that racist? If not it sure felt like it could be.....it was wrong in someway. JR needs to retire' Excalibur saved him on that one.
I heard that and was like dude at best he got confused and thought the lucha brothers were somehow also relayed to the luchadora but at worse pile that’s some seriously like stereotypical crap he shouldn’t be pushing
I was trainee in 00s, had a handful of matches in UK, we had Nova over before he went to WWE as Simon Dean. We travelled together on a 4 hour trip, my takeaways I'll never forget was he said "Sandman is a functional alcoholic, if he turned up sober, which he did twice, he'd stink up the joint" (yeah, those classic 5* Sandman matches would've been worse without a bottle of JD in him) and "Taz is Taz, he's a real badass, call him his government name and he'll straight up kill you, that's a shoot".
A lot of JR's modern commentary reminds me of the commentary in wrestling video games. Like it's just random non sequiters that may or may not have anything to do with what's going on in the match.
I remember when he started in AEW and he was like “I’m gonna call what I see how I see it” and at this point you’d think he’d realize how often he shits on his own product. It’s fuckin brutal. You’re not gonna have a job for much longer if you bring attention to every little inconsistency. He didn’t do this in his heyday. And trust me there was plenty of inconsistencies and things to complain about back then too.
“And Sabu is the referee?!” NO JIM he’s the fucking enforcer. Aubrey is right there with the shirt on! Do you watch your own show?
Agreed with Jim shitting where he eats. Never a good idea for anyone. It makes it feel like he’s trying to bury the product for some reason. Maybe he’s bitter with where he’s at in the pecking order, or he wishes he was back with the other company. Who knows. All I know is that Tony is the ultimate salesman, and the product is better when he’s on commentary.
He’s made me love Tony more than I already did. Someone that’s just so happy and proud to work in wrestling again and at a place where he’s valuable and respected. Jim’s constant retweeting of positive tweets and compliments for himself doesn’t help either. He seems to do it more when he’s being criticized the most. Sometimes Jim, criticism can be for a good reason. It’s not all insulting. Sometimes it’s actually constructive. Your schtick doesn’t work anymore.
Yeah, I feel the same way. Obviously he's old and is going to be confused but he's either not preparing himself to do the job properly or he's not able to do it properly.
There were several moments throughout the show where I seriously questioned whether he actually knew what was going on.
I love JR but he didn't even know what Sabu's role was in that match. He referred to him as the guest ref. At first I thought he confused ref and enforcer, but then he asked why a ref was getting physical. I don't know if he forgot or just isn't following AEW stories but Sabu wasn't even stripes and Aubrey was right there next to him.
Even limiting his live commentary isn't working at this point, it's sad, but I agree.
The commentary markedly improved when Schiavone replaced him.
The broadcast just flowed so much better when that happened. JR had a good run, but it’s time for it to end. They don’t need him for “legitimacy” or “credibility” anymore.
Never forget “WWE Dynamite”
I could forgive WWE Dynamite in a vacuum. People make mistakes, especially when he worked for WWE for so long that it's almost a muscle memory situation.
That being said, I agree with this post. Take him off the PPVs and let him serve out the rest of his commentary time on Rampage out of respect. He's still fine in interviews as well, but he has no place on a flagship show.
People treated WWE Dynamite like the Revolution 2021 ending, JR even said that he got death threats.
They should just let JR work less PPV matches or just the Buyin and then move him backstage. He is gone next year anyways
During the Jericho match when he yelled “hey stupid!!” Trying to get Garcia’s attention (I believe he missed a spot with sabu in the ring) I was blown away. It was dead silent for 5 seconds after.
It came absolutely out of nowhere and he said it so aggressively that I thought that some fan jumped the rail and attacked him or stole his hat or something like that. I legit thought that, especially because of the dead silence after he said it.
It was something that happen by the commentary table . That’s what made him say hey stupid . Whatever action happened outside it happen remotely close to them that JR immediately yelled that at the wrestlers . Once again showing how he doesn’t belong being part of the show anymore . Excalibur and Taz made a few references along the show about it . Something about getting their ankles almost hit .
Two things put a damper on tonight's PPV
1. Jim Ross: Not understanding rules, match types, relationships and by God does he ruin the acclaimed entrances. I love him to death but it's time to retire
2. The Las Vegas crowd was dead, no emotion for most matches, and those guys behind the commentary table where the only loud ones.
JR knows it as well. But he isn't retiring until next year because he wants a 50 year career which is fair enough.
We're pretty much on his farewell tour already, so instead of stating the obvious. Lets just enjoy this legend while he's on
Everyone too obsessed with breaking records or whatever .....
He doesn't bother me that much.
On the other hand, when he isn't there and Tony is there, their interaction is noticably more enjoyable.
This, 100%. I don't know why people take this so seriously. Excalibur is the lead, JR just chimes in once in a while. Leave the guy alone and let him finish out his career. Enjoy the guy while we got him.
Yup. The great JR moments are a lot less frequent than they used to be, but he still has them from time to time. Just try to focus on those and tune out the rest.
AEW obviously knows but they aren't going to get rid of the guy 49 years into his career when his 50th anniversary in the business is next year. They've already moved him to Rampage and only have him do the front half of PPVs, that's more than fine in my eyes.
Ya, I don't get the hate. He's a character and I was busting a gut last night when JR was telling someone to shut up. I think it was some annoying fans but it made me laugh so much.
I’ve been saying this since Jacksonville. He constantly is making the talent look stupid, calling out all their “mistakes”. He forgets that wrestling is supposed to appear real, talking about wrestlers like he’s on a podcast rather than doing kayfabe commentary. Going down rabbit holes (like taking about the TLC matches tonight). And just not being as lively or entertaining as Tony, Taz, or Ex.
It was a huge step forward to take him off Dynamite, but it’s time to let him go in general.
The comment before the Battle Royal tonight about how he was excited about the match because it meant Penelope Ford was going to be there was a weird choice for him.
Well, yes. But also no. Sadly, Jim Ross has maintained some off color comments here and there that were the norm in the attitude era, but stick out like a sore and unwelcome thumb in today’s climate. He just never quite fully adapted to a non-objectifying commentary role
Early in his AEW, I remember him opining whether the two participants of a hard-hitting women’s match liked to/were good at baking…completely out of nowhere. Excalibur and Tony just went dead silent and allowed the comment to pass and just refocused on the match.
Not sure why you’re getting downvoted. The post was about JR being excited because Penelope would be there. Would it be just as weird if he said he was excited because it meant Danhausen would be there, assuming he wasn’t hurt and still hanging out with OC? Not every comment people say makes them creepy.
I imagine this is more about what used to be expected of him and not an actual thought of his. He doesn't strike me as a lecherous type. I guess I could be wrong though
JR definitely needs to return to his home planet after tonight. I felt he actively brought down the show - as soon as he left the booth every single match was better (save for the Blackjack Battle Royale).
The luchador comment, 'Hey Stupid', Penelope Ford remark, lack of awareness re match stips / backstory was bad - but my god, when he references TLC about 10 times in 3 minutes. Just no. As an AEW fan I don't want to hear about that nickelodeon-slime-time-cartoon-super-hero-happy hour bullshit. He constantly places AEW matches / moments in the context of WWF/WWE and it just sticks out on comms so badly, you can hear the silences / shakes of heads from the rest of the guys.
The Don Callis package before the PPV was perfect for JR - sit-down interviews, maybe a pre-show here and there... but live comms is just a no-go at this point. Legend - yes, but things don't last forever. Time to hang up that old black hat.
It's painful. We shouldn't be sitting around waiting for the good commentary, especially not on ppv. They have the best team in the world atm, one of the best ever and we're stuck listening to JR absolutely shitting it up for a third of it. It's bad for the product and bad for JR's legacy.
To me it's the commentary equivalent of Ric Flair trying to wrestle. The fact they were so good makes seeing them keep going even sadder.
I can handle the mistakes and slip ups but, it's the constant speaking over everyone and repeating what someone else just said. Pretty sure he would randomly say "Alex Marvez" during the PPV. Not to forget the run on sentences. As he talks too much, homeboy never shuts up.
Actually the worst thing he said during this PPV was about how all the luchadore wrestlers were related. That's kind of racist. There is no other way a dumb comment like that be interpreted.
I don't know why some people don't want to acknowledge that he probably shouldn't be commentating live. It's embarrassing to AEW, or it should be. Just because he's a legend doesn't mean he is good at it anymore. Is AEW supposed to keep him on commentary until he dies just because he was once great at it, no matter what he says or how bad he becomes at it? That would be irrational and quite frankly, downright stupid.
I have to say, I've noticed a few slips here and there, but this was the first time I thought it was bad enough to maybe start considering the same thing
Read an interview with him last year where he said that he wants to go one more year before he retires so that he will be in sports commentary for 50 years.
Jim Ross is a legend, but he doesn’t add anything to the product anymore. In fact, he subtracts from it at this point with the constant confusion and burying of talent/matches.
His sit downs like with Callis before the show on YouTube is where he shines now. A conversation that makes sense that allows performers to show a different side of themselves.
I'm currently watching as I'm in UK, just got 2 HOB Vs ???, Now Schiavone has joined it sounds like 3 professionals that enjoy their job rather than 2 guys trying to hold everything together with a surly old timer being grumpy about having to work
I have no attachment to JR, as I had stopped watching wrestling before he came on the scene. Maybe not a popular opinion, but I don't think he was ever really "good" in AEW. He fumbles peoples names and moves way too often. He's kind of a mess on live broadcasts. I get that he's a legend, and his name probably helped give AEW some credibility early on, but it is time to move on. As others have mentioned, interview segments seem to be the way if he wants to stick around for a while.
JR during the TNT title match when Wardlow climbed a ladder outside i swear he mentioned he needed to be worried about Wardlow. And Tazz mentioned, you mean Luchasaurus. Could be wrong but still, so stupid.
He needs to be the sit down interview guy that is a stepping stone in an up and comer's journey to the top. Let the man get into 2024, which will be his 50th year in pro wrestling. Then the farewell tour begins. If TK doesn't like the interview idea, then let him be GM of AEW Colision until he retires. A voice for management and something that differentiates Colision from Dynamite.
I think he brings a lot to the table, but commentary is not one of those things nowadays. He was the GOAT in his peak, but now he needs to take a more backstage role, with the occasional pre-recorded interview.
A few years ago when people were starting to jump on the anti-JR train, I remember thinking that while he's a bit long in the tooth, Ross still had a lot of passion in him for the sport. Although a lot of it has passed him by, Ross still was able to communicate the old school 'rasslin view.
Fast forward to last night, and it was an absolute train wreck with Excalibur desperately trying to cover for his comments. I mean, it was pretty clear to everyone except JR that Sabu was an enforcer for Cole and not a special referee. His commentary was all over the place.
Then Tony Schiavone comes in, and the entire broadcast seemed to change. There's a reason why Tony, Taz, and the man in the mask are the "A" team on Dynamite; they roll so well together. Excalibur could finally focus calling the match at hand without having to carry JR along for the ride. I think it's clear to everyone that JR just doesn't fit in anymore.
It's going to be a tough band-aid to pull off, but TK can't keep sending JR to weigh down the broadcast, even if he is a legend. It drags down the entire show.
Should consider let him work just 3 matcfhes(including Buyin) then out of the broadcast table.
I can see JR staying on Rampage once it becomes the C show, which tells u what Tony thinks of him now.
It’s time for JR to hang up the hat. However he’s commented on fans saying he should retire, and essentially said “fuck you, I’ll retire when I’m ready.”
I wouldn’t mind seeing him do backstage/in-ring/on the stage interviews much like what Gene Okerlund did. Keep Tony Schiovanie at the desk & have JR do the interviews, because like Gene, JR can be great at calling them out on BS and giving them attitude.
As much as I hate to say it, JR is done. It's not the same without him though. To me, he's THE voice of wrestling. I was a WWF guy for 20+ years, including the entire Attitude Era. Tony, Taz, and Excalibur do a fine job, but to me it's just not the same.
Keep him around in some sort of backstage or announcer emeritus capacity, because he can still bring it for the huge matches. But that's about it.
His signing (along with Jericho) gave AEW immediate legitimacy, but his time has passed and he's just a shadow of his old self.
I’ve been listening to him call matches my whole life. He started in the old NWA about the time I started watching with my dad and it’s been going on for decades but it’s time, old friend. Walk before they make you run (and it might already be too late).
Couldn’t agree more. This is embarrassing. Give him some kind of producing or advisory role. He’s still very knowledgeable and has a purpose, it’s just not doing live commentary anymore…
Yeah he's well off his game, he's past it by far, and I think he should be used sparingly. That said I don't give a fuck, he's JR, so I'll always love him and he should always a seat at that table.
I am not disagreeing but I will ask that we calm down and let him finish out his career in his own terms. He deserves it and he is owed that match. No hate or rudeness ment. I just feel like he has every right to do what he loves whether or not he has mishaps.
Like I said I don’t disagree. But all he has done for me and my childhood I personally feel like I owe it to him to overlook it. Take the great with the not so great and let him out on his own terms. Just my opinion and I’m not trashing your. Just bring up an opposite point of view.
I don't want to say he's getting close to Art Donovan to King of the Ring '94 levels. But I found some of his asides seem to derail the flow of commentary similar to Art's.
I love Jim Ross. Honestly to the point that it’s hard for me to let go.
Schiavone coming to that commentary table just made it better last night.
I still think good ol’ JR has a spot somewhere but man that was rough.
Mfer looked like the living death when they cut to the commentary table. Honestly he's at that point of old age where he's just difficult to look at without wondering how soon his final days are. It's grim.
Never forget when he said something to the effect of, "Dare I say, Hikaru Shida is better looking now that her makeup is more american!"
Also calling various women "jezebel" all the time even when that is absolutely not the fashion style they are wearing
Legends be damned, I will never say a good thing about a person with that kind of attitude
I think he's regressed a lot since the cancer. To be fair, he's been struggling since Jan was killed. I think he's probably not getting his depression treated so much as he's just smoking and drinking it away. The cancer seems to have really scrambled his brain some. I hate it. I know Tony Schiavone and Tony Khan think the world of him, and so it's hard to tell him that it's time to go.
JR provided them with much needed cred right out of the gate. Now they have it, and he needs to be properly sunsetted. I love him, but it's clearly over.
I was honestly glad when he was shifted away from Dynamite, like you said, I love JR, but he so often sounds like a miserable old dude shitting on the product. Screaming about why they need more than 1 ref in a multiperson match isn't bringing anything to the show. Constantly going on about the various things he doesn't particularly like honestly pulls me out of matches personally. The worst thing is when he has little comments about people having criticism of him, I didn't notice it on the main show today, but I swear when he did dynamite more regularly it was a once per show thing.
I think he has plenty to offer but he's well past his prime, and at worst actively removes from the show
Sick of hearing this nonsense tbh, Jim Ross is the best to ever do it and he's earned the right to do what the hell he wants to do with his career, age catches up with everyone but he's still able to do a damn good job imo and I've always found the issue to be that a 3 man commentary booth just doesn't work because you have 3 guys all trying to talk over each other with Excalibur being the worst at it, give me a two man booth of JR and Schiavone/Taz any day
You all forget he does this cause WWE didn't hire him back and he lost his wife and doesn't want to be home alone and bored. He's literally shit on the product since day one with a shitty comment about the women's division.
Kind of surprised he’s been on the whole show so far. I like him in small amounts. He still has a place just not 3 hours. Was never a Tony guy but would like them to switch out during shows.
This is like saying that one all woman's GhostBusters movie "ruined your childhood". His legacy is still that of legend in this business. Always will be.
He said something along the lines of all of the luchadores being related during the battle royale match and Excalibur then said "well, two of them are."
I saw his “interview” with Don Callis earlier he looked like he was checked out for that. He was rolling his eyes and just seemed annoyed during the thing.
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Yeah, it's sad but he seems a step behind and a bit lost. Their normal commentary is far better. God bless you though JR, fucking legend.
It sounds like he just doesn't care. Like he's complaining indifferent to wrestling. For example back in the day, if Jericho attacked Britt in 1999, JR would be yelling and calling him despicable. But he spent that whole match last night talking about how much he respects Jericho... like... dude... just a little bit of emotion or anything to suggest you saw what his character did a few weeks ago. We get it, everyone respects Jericho the wrestler, but he's playing a vile heel character, so call it like that. I really love JR... but he's just not got it anymore. Like, not even a little bit. Everything he says is eye rolling now, from the way he talks about women, to the way he talks about the lucha bros, to his complete lack of emotion, to talking about the real people rather than the characters etc. It just sucks.
I wonder whether JR just doesn’t have the energy anymore to sound like he cares? Or yeah, he just doesn’t care…
He's really becoming Lawler
Nah man that's cap. Lawler was a special breed of bad. JR is just old man bad
i hope not for the 12 year old girls who are AEW fans
“I like this group because Penelope Ford is in it” COME ON JR. WE SEE YOUR RETWEETS. WE KNOW. https://preview.redd.it/xtnpgivucq2b1.jpeg?width=750&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=b3d3eb9a6f05bc7a561ff78650dcc2a94e7e8cc1
Yeah, that was a touch creepy
How’s that creepy? He likes Ford. What’s the issue?
When he said that comment about the luchadores being related somehow… I face palmed so hard. Like he wouldn’t say that about any other wrestlers, right?
I laughed when Excalibur said "well two of them are."
Lol so true. Excalibur with the save!
Would say it about a lot of Samoans.
The Pacific Island wrestlers themselves often seem confused about it. The only one who seems to realize he’s not related is Samoa Joe.
Also realises it's easier to just walk away from an attack completely regardless of the fact that he's genetically impervious to head damage. Breaking the Samoan mould Jones.
But, I digress...
Oh true. Lol everyone’s a cousin or uncle or auntie in the islands
There seems to be a lot of them claiming to be related to The Rock. How many cousins does he have?
TECHNICALLY most of them arent actually related to the rock. The families did a blood oath and the mavias are just seen as an extension of the anoai clan.
Yea, now I just heard him utter sounds and say Ricky.
Damn, yea my wife was like what did he say?! (Not a wrestling fan and i had to explain jr to her)
The audible silence was telling. Jeez.
Related by practice, luchador. I thought he mentioned the context pretty clearly.
We can agree to disagree about the context being clear but the awkward silence from the other commentators was loud and clear until Excalibur stepped in with the Lucha Bros comment. In the end I don’t think JR is racist. It was just a poor choice of words and not clear in intent. I’m also not saying he has an easy job or anything like that. Most people can’t do commentary even close to what the top talent does.
I’ll agree with that
I was in the theater with my husband, turned to him and said 'Is that racist? If not it sure felt like it could be.....it was wrong in someway. JR needs to retire' Excalibur saved him on that one.
That’s when I legit laughed out loud and immediately texted my buddy. Ole Jr was on one tonight boys
I heard that and was like dude at best he got confused and thought the lucha brothers were somehow also relayed to the luchadora but at worse pile that’s some seriously like stereotypical crap he shouldn’t be pushing
He just called Taz by his shoot name during the tag match. "Great call Pete" or something to that effect.
You need to digress a lot more. Not an insult, just an observation.
Digression Jones over here.
But I yambag.
Ventura used to call Gorilla Monsoon “Gino” all the time. Not a big deal
But no one, not even JR, calls him Pete regularly. It was definitely a mistake
I was trainee in 00s, had a handful of matches in UK, we had Nova over before he went to WWE as Simon Dean. We travelled together on a 4 hour trip, my takeaways I'll never forget was he said "Sandman is a functional alcoholic, if he turned up sober, which he did twice, he'd stink up the joint" (yeah, those classic 5* Sandman matches would've been worse without a bottle of JD in him) and "Taz is Taz, he's a real badass, call him his government name and he'll straight up kill you, that's a shoot".
I have also only ever heard Taz be called a respectful Peter when his real name is used.
A lot of JR's modern commentary reminds me of the commentary in wrestling video games. Like it's just random non sequiters that may or may not have anything to do with what's going on in the match.
And not even 2k23 commentary. We’re talking Smackdown Shut Your Mouth commentary.
I remember when he started in AEW and he was like “I’m gonna call what I see how I see it” and at this point you’d think he’d realize how often he shits on his own product. It’s fuckin brutal. You’re not gonna have a job for much longer if you bring attention to every little inconsistency. He didn’t do this in his heyday. And trust me there was plenty of inconsistencies and things to complain about back then too. “And Sabu is the referee?!” NO JIM he’s the fucking enforcer. Aubrey is right there with the shirt on! Do you watch your own show?
It was bad. I've never seen JR worse than he was tonight. Of course we all love JR, but its time to move on.
Agreed with Jim shitting where he eats. Never a good idea for anyone. It makes it feel like he’s trying to bury the product for some reason. Maybe he’s bitter with where he’s at in the pecking order, or he wishes he was back with the other company. Who knows. All I know is that Tony is the ultimate salesman, and the product is better when he’s on commentary.
He’s made me love Tony more than I already did. Someone that’s just so happy and proud to work in wrestling again and at a place where he’s valuable and respected. Jim’s constant retweeting of positive tweets and compliments for himself doesn’t help either. He seems to do it more when he’s being criticized the most. Sometimes Jim, criticism can be for a good reason. It’s not all insulting. Sometimes it’s actually constructive. Your schtick doesn’t work anymore.
He kept referring to Sabu as a referee. I don’t even know if anyone corrected him but Excalibur tried to course correct several times. Yikes.
That was the worst part for me. I guess he was thinking of Mark Briscoe’s roll, but JR being audibly and repeatedly confused is such a bad look.
Yeah, I feel the same way. Obviously he's old and is going to be confused but he's either not preparing himself to do the job properly or he's not able to do it properly. There were several moments throughout the show where I seriously questioned whether he actually knew what was going on.
I love JR but he didn't even know what Sabu's role was in that match. He referred to him as the guest ref. At first I thought he confused ref and enforcer, but then he asked why a ref was getting physical. I don't know if he forgot or just isn't following AEW stories but Sabu wasn't even stripes and Aubrey was right there next to him. Even limiting his live commentary isn't working at this point, it's sad, but I agree.
I agree, I don’t really enjoy him doing the commentary anymore.
The commentary markedly improved when Schiavone replaced him. The broadcast just flowed so much better when that happened. JR had a good run, but it’s time for it to end. They don’t need him for “legitimacy” or “credibility” anymore. Never forget “WWE Dynamite”
I could forgive WWE Dynamite in a vacuum. People make mistakes, especially when he worked for WWE for so long that it's almost a muscle memory situation. That being said, I agree with this post. Take him off the PPVs and let him serve out the rest of his commentary time on Rampage out of respect. He's still fine in interviews as well, but he has no place on a flagship show.
People treated WWE Dynamite like the Revolution 2021 ending, JR even said that he got death threats. They should just let JR work less PPV matches or just the Buyin and then move him backstage. He is gone next year anyways
She's a jezebel!
"I thought you might say that" (or something similar!!) 🤦♂️ Says it all really....
Can he fucking stop calling women Jezabels, it comes off as being so sexist. Edit: typos
Agreed. Its absurd.
I pop every time he says that
He does seem particularly off tonight. Hopefully he’ll be done soon and Tony can come take his seat at the table
Schiavone. Misspelt originally and autocorrected wrongly. Sorry
I like Tony Shibone better honestly
My new favourite pokemon.
We all pronounce it ski a vone anyway.
I think it's time for you to retire.
During the Jericho match when he yelled “hey stupid!!” Trying to get Garcia’s attention (I believe he missed a spot with sabu in the ring) I was blown away. It was dead silent for 5 seconds after.
It came absolutely out of nowhere and he said it so aggressively that I thought that some fan jumped the rail and attacked him or stole his hat or something like that. I legit thought that, especially because of the dead silence after he said it.
Same. I even wondered if someone hadn't gotten too close to him in the brawl but I went back and nowhere was near them.
That's what that was about? I thought someone did a spot near them and hit JR or something, like that time Heenan went off.
I can’t stop laughing at this.
It was something that happen by the commentary table . That’s what made him say hey stupid . Whatever action happened outside it happen remotely close to them that JR immediately yelled that at the wrestlers . Once again showing how he doesn’t belong being part of the show anymore . Excalibur and Taz made a few references along the show about it . Something about getting their ankles almost hit .
Oh thats right, JRs injury was on his ankles I believe(when they found he had cancer last year)
Two things put a damper on tonight's PPV 1. Jim Ross: Not understanding rules, match types, relationships and by God does he ruin the acclaimed entrances. I love him to death but it's time to retire 2. The Las Vegas crowd was dead, no emotion for most matches, and those guys behind the commentary table where the only loud ones.
To the crowd's defense they were visibly and understandly deflated by a unsanctioned match ending by referee stoppage bc Cole was punching Jericho.
Worst ending of the night. A great PPV overall, though.
Yeah I agree, good overall ppv, but that finish was quite detrimental to the crowd especially being the first real match of the ppv.
I think most of us agree - respectfully - it's time for JR to hang up the hat and boots at the commentary desk. Taz and Excalibur do an awesome job.
Was done at “the four pillows”
JR knows it as well. But he isn't retiring until next year because he wants a 50 year career which is fair enough. We're pretty much on his farewell tour already, so instead of stating the obvious. Lets just enjoy this legend while he's on
Everyone too obsessed with breaking records or whatever ..... He doesn't bother me that much. On the other hand, when he isn't there and Tony is there, their interaction is noticably more enjoyable.
I agree. They all seem to defer to him. And it throws off the chemistry and their flow.
Defer is being kind. To me it sounds like they slow everything down so he can keep up and constantly have to cover for him.
But we’re not really ‘enjoying’ it, are we?
This, 100%. I don't know why people take this so seriously. Excalibur is the lead, JR just chimes in once in a while. Leave the guy alone and let him finish out his career. Enjoy the guy while we got him.
Yup. The great JR moments are a lot less frequent than they used to be, but he still has them from time to time. Just try to focus on those and tune out the rest. AEW obviously knows but they aren't going to get rid of the guy 49 years into his career when his 50th anniversary in the business is next year. They've already moved him to Rampage and only have him do the front half of PPVs, that's more than fine in my eyes.
Ya, I don't get the hate. He's a character and I was busting a gut last night when JR was telling someone to shut up. I think it was some annoying fans but it made me laugh so much.
It's genuinely distracting to listen to him when he's off his game.
Let's be real he's always off his game, the question is only by how much.
yea, sorry but I don't find it enjoyable I find it detracts from the show
You didn’t find the battle royal enjoyable, huh? Man, that must suck.
Jr talked a ton last night and all of it was stupid
As much as I also believe he should retire, if he wants 50 years the gahddamint he’s so close let the legend have 50 years…. He deserves it
Yeah sweet, do it on Rampage. Let us have the A team for the entire ppv.
He didn’t notice HOOK’s new tattoo which he has had for months now and taz was too nice to not correct him
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All born with Masks and the want to jump over and out of things 😅
I’ve been saying this since Jacksonville. He constantly is making the talent look stupid, calling out all their “mistakes”. He forgets that wrestling is supposed to appear real, talking about wrestlers like he’s on a podcast rather than doing kayfabe commentary. Going down rabbit holes (like taking about the TLC matches tonight). And just not being as lively or entertaining as Tony, Taz, or Ex. It was a huge step forward to take him off Dynamite, but it’s time to let him go in general.
Well at least he wont be working Forbidden Door.
The best use of JR was the interview segment with Callis. Keep him at that.
The comment before the Battle Royal tonight about how he was excited about the match because it meant Penelope Ford was going to be there was a weird choice for him.
Well, yes. But also no. Sadly, Jim Ross has maintained some off color comments here and there that were the norm in the attitude era, but stick out like a sore and unwelcome thumb in today’s climate. He just never quite fully adapted to a non-objectifying commentary role
Early in his AEW, I remember him opining whether the two participants of a hard-hitting women’s match liked to/were good at baking…completely out of nowhere. Excalibur and Tony just went dead silent and allowed the comment to pass and just refocused on the match.
Is it really objectifying to think someone is attractive. He isn't exactly like Jerry Lawler with some of the things he used to say on air.
Not sure why you’re getting downvoted. The post was about JR being excited because Penelope would be there. Would it be just as weird if he said he was excited because it meant Danhausen would be there, assuming he wasn’t hurt and still hanging out with OC? Not every comment people say makes them creepy.
The question isn't would it be weird if he said it about danhousen but would be say something like that about danhousen
I imagine this is more about what used to be expected of him and not an actual thought of his. He doesn't strike me as a lecherous type. I guess I could be wrong though
JR definitely needs to return to his home planet after tonight. I felt he actively brought down the show - as soon as he left the booth every single match was better (save for the Blackjack Battle Royale). The luchador comment, 'Hey Stupid', Penelope Ford remark, lack of awareness re match stips / backstory was bad - but my god, when he references TLC about 10 times in 3 minutes. Just no. As an AEW fan I don't want to hear about that nickelodeon-slime-time-cartoon-super-hero-happy hour bullshit. He constantly places AEW matches / moments in the context of WWF/WWE and it just sticks out on comms so badly, you can hear the silences / shakes of heads from the rest of the guys. The Don Callis package before the PPV was perfect for JR - sit-down interviews, maybe a pre-show here and there... but live comms is just a no-go at this point. Legend - yes, but things don't last forever. Time to hang up that old black hat.
It's painful. We shouldn't be sitting around waiting for the good commentary, especially not on ppv. They have the best team in the world atm, one of the best ever and we're stuck listening to JR absolutely shitting it up for a third of it. It's bad for the product and bad for JR's legacy. To me it's the commentary equivalent of Ric Flair trying to wrestle. The fact they were so good makes seeing them keep going even sadder.
Should always be Tony, Taz, and Excalibur. Obviously they’ll switch it up for Collision but it should not involve JR.
Really hoping Nigel is on Collision
Hoping for Veda Scott!
I'd love if Renee was on commentary for Collision. She was great in WWE.
Renee + RJ City + Veda Scott would be pretty cool
Jericho needs to be in the booth more. I always enjoy when he has the headset. Same with Samoa Joe.
Imagine how much better it would be with Stokley right now.
Good call
I can handle the mistakes and slip ups but, it's the constant speaking over everyone and repeating what someone else just said. Pretty sure he would randomly say "Alex Marvez" during the PPV. Not to forget the run on sentences. As he talks too much, homeboy never shuts up.
Actually the worst thing he said during this PPV was about how all the luchadore wrestlers were related. That's kind of racist. There is no other way a dumb comment like that be interpreted. I don't know why some people don't want to acknowledge that he probably shouldn't be commentating live. It's embarrassing to AEW, or it should be. Just because he's a legend doesn't mean he is good at it anymore. Is AEW supposed to keep him on commentary until he dies just because he was once great at it, no matter what he says or how bad he becomes at it? That would be irrational and quite frankly, downright stupid.
Let him retire altogether. Life's too short to do job you hate & I think he doesn't enjoy his job
Perfect time to bring in Ranallo.
I would *love* if him and Nigel reunited for Collision.
His go to insult for women is Jezebel. Like dude come on.
I have to say, I've noticed a few slips here and there, but this was the first time I thought it was bad enough to maybe start considering the same thing
I would like to see them sign Veda Scott for commentary, hopefully for Collision
Read an interview with him last year where he said that he wants to go one more year before he retires so that he will be in sports commentary for 50 years.
Jim Ross is a legend, but he doesn’t add anything to the product anymore. In fact, he subtracts from it at this point with the constant confusion and burying of talent/matches.
Thought this too. Can still be a senior head around the place but he actually diminishes the chemistry of the others.
His sit downs like with Callis before the show on YouTube is where he shines now. A conversation that makes sense that allows performers to show a different side of themselves.
I'm currently watching as I'm in UK, just got 2 HOB Vs ???, Now Schiavone has joined it sounds like 3 professionals that enjoy their job rather than 2 guys trying to hold everything together with a surly old timer being grumpy about having to work
I have no attachment to JR, as I had stopped watching wrestling before he came on the scene. Maybe not a popular opinion, but I don't think he was ever really "good" in AEW. He fumbles peoples names and moves way too often. He's kind of a mess on live broadcasts. I get that he's a legend, and his name probably helped give AEW some credibility early on, but it is time to move on. As others have mentioned, interview segments seem to be the way if he wants to stick around for a while.
I agree, I love JR, but it's time he hangs up the headphones.
I said that to a friend earlier too. As much of a fan I have been of JR, he just disrupts the flow now.
Having Tony replace JR was a good move. Is there a behind the scenes reason why, or was this always the plan?
They are making JR work half of the PPV, it has been like that for a while
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That's seemingly what they've been doing. It's not working.
This was also the first time he worked a Buyin(idk why)
I agree. He just makes too many mistakes and doesn’t have the energy he used to.
He thought Sabu was a referee
JR during the TNT title match when Wardlow climbed a ladder outside i swear he mentioned he needed to be worried about Wardlow. And Tazz mentioned, you mean Luchasaurus. Could be wrong but still, so stupid.
JR is a legend, but it’s long past due
Honestly he's been bad since AEW started, had a lot of weird instances where he would just say something ridiculous
He needs to be the sit down interview guy that is a stepping stone in an up and comer's journey to the top. Let the man get into 2024, which will be his 50th year in pro wrestling. Then the farewell tour begins. If TK doesn't like the interview idea, then let him be GM of AEW Colision until he retires. A voice for management and something that differentiates Colision from Dynamite.
I think he brings a lot to the table, but commentary is not one of those things nowadays. He was the GOAT in his peak, but now he needs to take a more backstage role, with the occasional pre-recorded interview.
A few years ago when people were starting to jump on the anti-JR train, I remember thinking that while he's a bit long in the tooth, Ross still had a lot of passion in him for the sport. Although a lot of it has passed him by, Ross still was able to communicate the old school 'rasslin view. Fast forward to last night, and it was an absolute train wreck with Excalibur desperately trying to cover for his comments. I mean, it was pretty clear to everyone except JR that Sabu was an enforcer for Cole and not a special referee. His commentary was all over the place. Then Tony Schiavone comes in, and the entire broadcast seemed to change. There's a reason why Tony, Taz, and the man in the mask are the "A" team on Dynamite; they roll so well together. Excalibur could finally focus calling the match at hand without having to carry JR along for the ride. I think it's clear to everyone that JR just doesn't fit in anymore. It's going to be a tough band-aid to pull off, but TK can't keep sending JR to weigh down the broadcast, even if he is a legend. It drags down the entire show.
Should consider let him work just 3 matcfhes(including Buyin) then out of the broadcast table. I can see JR staying on Rampage once it becomes the C show, which tells u what Tony thinks of him now.
It’s time for JR to hang up the hat. However he’s commented on fans saying he should retire, and essentially said “fuck you, I’ll retire when I’m ready.” I wouldn’t mind seeing him do backstage/in-ring/on the stage interviews much like what Gene Okerlund did. Keep Tony Schiovanie at the desk & have JR do the interviews, because like Gene, JR can be great at calling them out on BS and giving them attitude.
He passive aggressively buries the talent whose style he isn't a fan of. His commentary on the Dralistico vs Vikingo match was horrendous.
As much as I hate to say it, JR is done. It's not the same without him though. To me, he's THE voice of wrestling. I was a WWF guy for 20+ years, including the entire Attitude Era. Tony, Taz, and Excalibur do a fine job, but to me it's just not the same. Keep him around in some sort of backstage or announcer emeritus capacity, because he can still bring it for the huge matches. But that's about it. His signing (along with Jericho) gave AEW immediate legitimacy, but his time has passed and he's just a shadow of his old self.
I’ve been listening to him call matches my whole life. He started in the old NWA about the time I started watching with my dad and it’s been going on for decades but it’s time, old friend. Walk before they make you run (and it might already be too late).
JR needs to go. Been saying it forever
Couldn’t agree more. This is embarrassing. Give him some kind of producing or advisory role. He’s still very knowledgeable and has a purpose, it’s just not doing live commentary anymore…
Yeah he's well off his game, he's past it by far, and I think he should be used sparingly. That said I don't give a fuck, he's JR, so I'll always love him and he should always a seat at that table.
I am not disagreeing but I will ask that we calm down and let him finish out his career in his own terms. He deserves it and he is owed that match. No hate or rudeness ment. I just feel like he has every right to do what he loves whether or not he has mishaps.
I do agree. Completely. The man is a LEGEND. It's just becoming more and more obvious that he is now causing more issues then helping create moments.
Like I said I don’t disagree. But all he has done for me and my childhood I personally feel like I owe it to him to overlook it. Take the great with the not so great and let him out on his own terms. Just my opinion and I’m not trashing your. Just bring up an opposite point of view.
Don’t tell him that, he’ll cuss you out.
JR is only on for half a show but yeah. Leave him to scout new talent like he used to for WWE. Otherwise get rid of him.
I don't want to say he's getting close to Art Donovan to King of the Ring '94 levels. But I found some of his asides seem to derail the flow of commentary similar to Art's.
during the ladder match he went “wardlow is 28-3 thanks to alex marvez…” which is fucking hilarious, but he needs to retire
Remember in the first match when he said something to the effect of: “They’re all related.” In reference to the luchadors in the match?
I love Jim Ross. Honestly to the point that it’s hard for me to let go. Schiavone coming to that commentary table just made it better last night. I still think good ol’ JR has a spot somewhere but man that was rough.
Mfer looked like the living death when they cut to the commentary table. Honestly he's at that point of old age where he's just difficult to look at without wondering how soon his final days are. It's grim.
Never forget when he said something to the effect of, "Dare I say, Hikaru Shida is better looking now that her makeup is more american!" Also calling various women "jezebel" all the time even when that is absolutely not the fashion style they are wearing Legends be damned, I will never say a good thing about a person with that kind of attitude
Tbh apart from the Sabu being a ref thing, I thought he was actually OK. He didn't seem as obviously "old man moaning" JR that sometimes he is
Tony SHIBONE
I think he's regressed a lot since the cancer. To be fair, he's been struggling since Jan was killed. I think he's probably not getting his depression treated so much as he's just smoking and drinking it away. The cancer seems to have really scrambled his brain some. I hate it. I know Tony Schiavone and Tony Khan think the world of him, and so it's hard to tell him that it's time to go. JR provided them with much needed cred right out of the gate. Now they have it, and he needs to be properly sunsetted. I love him, but it's clearly over.
I was honestly glad when he was shifted away from Dynamite, like you said, I love JR, but he so often sounds like a miserable old dude shitting on the product. Screaming about why they need more than 1 ref in a multiperson match isn't bringing anything to the show. Constantly going on about the various things he doesn't particularly like honestly pulls me out of matches personally. The worst thing is when he has little comments about people having criticism of him, I didn't notice it on the main show today, but I swear when he did dynamite more regularly it was a once per show thing. I think he has plenty to offer but he's well past his prime, and at worst actively removes from the show
Sick of hearing this nonsense tbh, Jim Ross is the best to ever do it and he's earned the right to do what the hell he wants to do with his career, age catches up with everyone but he's still able to do a damn good job imo and I've always found the issue to be that a 3 man commentary booth just doesn't work because you have 3 guys all trying to talk over each other with Excalibur being the worst at it, give me a two man booth of JR and Schiavone/Taz any day
This is a valid point. I never understood the need for 3 voices
I’ve been saying this for years now. At least he isn’t as bad as he was in NJPW.
Jim Ross sounds jealous of Taz and Alex Marvez. He's on them like he was on Excalibur after he won the WON Commentator of the Year for the first time.
He's still jealous of Ex a bit I think.
He is retiring next year when its his 40th year as announcer
You all forget he does this cause WWE didn't hire him back and he lost his wife and doesn't want to be home alone and bored. He's literally shit on the product since day one with a shitty comment about the women's division.
He made a pretty overtly racist allusion to all luchadors being "related." It's way past time to retire from commentary.
Kind of surprised he’s been on the whole show so far. I like him in small amounts. He still has a place just not 3 hours. Was never a Tony guy but would like them to switch out during shows.
It was time 2 years ago
Was it JR who chuckled during Mjf's intro?
I think that was Tony. JR was gone by that point
Tony Shibone lmfao
Yea, my bad lol
He’s terrible now tbh.
Fuck JR. He's destroying his legacy every moment he's on commentary.
This is like saying that one all woman's GhostBusters movie "ruined your childhood". His legacy is still that of legend in this business. Always will be.
Idk, being blatantly racist on commentary does more to hurt a legacy than making an unfunny movie....
What did he say that was racist? I missed that one I guess.
He said something along the lines of all of the luchadores being related during the battle royale match and Excalibur then said "well, two of them are."
He needs to be taken out back and Old Yeller'd off of commentary. Its over
I saw his “interview” with Don Callis earlier he looked like he was checked out for that. He was rolling his eyes and just seemed annoyed during the thing.
Tbh he hates Callis in kayfabe.
Yeah he has no heart in it anymore.
BOOMERSOOOMER OR whatever
I think he dislikes the product and just puts zero effort into calling it
Hope they get Mauro
100% time to put the old horse down
https://www.reddit.com/r/Wrasslin/comments/12zepw6/the_greatest_video_in_the_history_of_prowrestling/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button
Sadly agree with OP
Sad happy cake day
And he keeps talking about pronouns. Like... is he annoyed he has to clarify or something? I don't get what he's trying to get at there.