Jim Ross returns to pro wrestling
Legendary announcer and commentator, Jim Ross has reached an agreement with New Japan Pro Wrestling to replace the brand new WWE signing Mauro Ranallo as lead announcer for the NJPW TV series on AXS TV in America.
Fox sports reported that Jim Ross will partner Josh Barnett in the booth as NJPW attempts to create a foothold in the US market.
The signing of Ross has great potential as he is one of the most recognizable voices in professional wrestling, covering various WWE shows and pay-per-views with different broadcast partners, most notably Jerry Lawler.
Ross should, on paper, help NJPW gain more credibility in the US market and said the following:-
“I’m a big fan of the New Japan product as they have been one if the most highly regarded brands within the genre for decades. New Japan has a unique opportunity with AXS TV to grow their brand in North America. The more fans sample the athleticism, physicality, no-nonsense presentation of NJPW, the more they’re going to like it. For me, the New Japan Pro Wrestling business philosophy reminds me of my earlier years in wrestling. I’ve had numerous other offers, some serious and others just flirting to return to TV Wrestling broadcasting but none have had the appeal that AXS TV offered me. We think my style will fit the NJPW in-ring presentation well. We’ll know that conclusively in early March. Plus, AXS TV and I discussed other potential projects outside NJPW.”
Well, the way things stand, good ol’ JR seems excited at the prospect of working with AXS Tv and NJPW and so am I.