Sports Legend Announces He’s Cancer-Free

Legendary wrestling commentator Jim Ross delivered fantastic news to sports fans during his June 26 “Grilling JR” podcast, announcing that he’s officially cancer-free after battling colon cancer.

The 73-year-old AEW voice shared the triumphant update just one month after undergoing surgery to combat the disease.

“The cancer’s gone, which I’m very happy to say,” Ross revealed during the podcast. The announcement comes as welcome relief for wrestling fans who have followed Ross’s health journey over the years.

Not only is Ross celebrating his clean bill of health, but he’s already setting his sights on returning to calling wrestling matches. The Hall of Fame announcer expressed his eagerness to get back behind the microphone for AEW’s upcoming All In event at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas, on July 12.

“I’m tired of sitting at home, and I’m excited about the opportunities that await,” Ross shared. “I am feeling better. My plan is to be in Dallas for the big event.”

Jim Ross Thanked AEW President Tony Khan: ‘Supported Me Wholeheartedly’

Throughout his health battle, Ross has been particularly grateful for the support he’s received from AEW President Tony Khan. The veteran commentator took time during his podcast to specifically praise Khan’s handling of the situation and highlighted the importance of compassionate leadership.

“Tony Khan has been amazingly wonderful during my illness,” Ross said. “He supported me wholeheartedly and I really do appreciate that. That’s the way a boss should act, should do is take care of your people.”

Ross stressed how much he appreciated Khan’s support, noting that the AEW president had shown great leadership during a tough time.

“Tony Khan has certainly taken good care of me, and I plan on being reciprocal and doing my best to take care of him in my role going forward,” he added. Ross joined the promotion after spending 25 combined years with WWE, where he became the iconic voice of wrestling alongside Jerry “The King” Lawler during the Attitude Era of the late 1990s and early 2000s.

Ross Is in the WWE Hall of Fame

Ross’s journey in professional wrestling spans an incredible five decades, beginning in 1974 when he started as a referee for NWA Tri-State, which later became Mid-South Wrestling under promoter Bill Watts, The New York Post reported. He transitioned to broadcasting in 1977 and never looked back, eventually becoming one of the most recognizable voices in sports entertainment.

His colon cancer diagnosis marks the second time Ross has faced the disease. He previously battled skin cancer in October 2021 but successfully went into remission by the end of that year. Ross also has Bell’s palsy, a condition that affects facial muscles. His work in wrestling commentary led to his induction into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2007.

The upcoming All In event represents Ross’s successful return after conquering cancer. All In has evolved into AEW’s premier annual event, serving as their equivalent to WWE’s WrestleMania. This year, AEW will hold the event in the United States for the first time after hosting it at London’s Wembley Stadium for the past two years.

Ross was on commentary for last year’s main event and plans to return this July. As he continues his recovery, Ross remains focused on the future and his role with AEW.

“You never know about tomorrow,” Ross reflected during the June 26 podcast. “So you know, I’m blessed that my health has returned, and I’m feeling pretty damn good.”