WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross has answered several fan questions on his Twitter account, @JRsBBQ. Here are some highlights of what JR wrote on Tuesday morning about:
SmackDown Moving To Tuesdays:
"Will WWE move Smackdown to tuesdays live on Sy Fy? Heard nothing official but personally I like the idea. Live TV hard to beat. So, TBD."
WWE's New Cable Channel:
"WWE Network moving forward briskly. Not sure of details but tv biz buzzing & interested. 'Assume' nothing other than it's gonna be a hit."
What He Thinks Of TNA Wrestling:
"Have many friends there & wish them no Ill will & only success."
Rumored WrestleMania 28 Matches:
"Amazing how many folks think I actually known the WM28 card here in September. I'd guess NO ONE KNOWS the card. NO ONE."
What He Thinks About Zack Ryder's Potential:
"Working diligently to become a player & I hope that he makes it."
You can follow Jim Ross on Twitter @JRsBBQ.com.
Showing posts with label jim ross. Show all posts
Showing posts with label jim ross. Show all posts
Wednesday, 7 September 2011
Wednesday, 31 August 2011
Jim Ross New Blog HIghlights
Jim Ross is back with a new blog over on jrsbarbq.com. Here are some highlights from this entry:
- Get well wishes to Rey Mysterio who had knee surgery in San Diego this past Friday. Rey had ACL and MCL issues addressed and will be out of action for several months. This is the same knee that Rey has had multiple surgeries so his rehabilitation work will be even more magnified and important.
- Many have asked me via Twitter @JRsBBQ and in the Q&A Section of this site to comment on the ESPN/Grantland article regarding Ric Flair's personal finances and other personal issues. Ric has been a friend for well over three decades and I was uncomfortable reading the piece. Ric has always enjoyed life to its fullest, and beyond, which, last I looked, wasn't a crime.
Lots of famous athletes and entertainers have had financial hurdles to overcome. If Ric has the issues that Grantland outlined, I wish Naitch well and he has my support.
- Several people have asked me about Samoa Joe. I personally like Joe's work and feel that his best days lie ahead. I do not know Joe. I've never conversed with him that I can recall. Bottom line is 1. he has a contract where he now works and 2. I am not involved in talent acquisition for WWE.
- Could Scott Hall fit in the announce booth as a color commentator? It's not an easy transition for many former wrestlers to make the move from the ring to the announce table so it wouldn't be automatic. However, Scott is a bright guy who is glib and he knows the genre well. If he put in the work that it would take to be an asset who's to say that Scott Hall wouldn't be a good broadcaster? I do know that it takes great focus, commitment and study to be as good as one needs to be in today's world. I don't know if Scott has an interest in this matter but it was a question from a Twitter follower.
- Get well wishes to Rey Mysterio who had knee surgery in San Diego this past Friday. Rey had ACL and MCL issues addressed and will be out of action for several months. This is the same knee that Rey has had multiple surgeries so his rehabilitation work will be even more magnified and important.
- Many have asked me via Twitter @JRsBBQ and in the Q&A Section of this site to comment on the ESPN/Grantland article regarding Ric Flair's personal finances and other personal issues. Ric has been a friend for well over three decades and I was uncomfortable reading the piece. Ric has always enjoyed life to its fullest, and beyond, which, last I looked, wasn't a crime.
Lots of famous athletes and entertainers have had financial hurdles to overcome. If Ric has the issues that Grantland outlined, I wish Naitch well and he has my support.
- Several people have asked me about Samoa Joe. I personally like Joe's work and feel that his best days lie ahead. I do not know Joe. I've never conversed with him that I can recall. Bottom line is 1. he has a contract where he now works and 2. I am not involved in talent acquisition for WWE.
- Could Scott Hall fit in the announce booth as a color commentator? It's not an easy transition for many former wrestlers to make the move from the ring to the announce table so it wouldn't be automatic. However, Scott is a bright guy who is glib and he knows the genre well. If he put in the work that it would take to be an asset who's to say that Scott Hall wouldn't be a good broadcaster? I do know that it takes great focus, commitment and study to be as good as one needs to be in today's world. I don't know if Scott has an interest in this matter but it was a question from a Twitter follower.
Saturday, 6 August 2011
New Jim Ross Blog Highlights
WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross is back with a new blog over on jrsbarbq.com. Here are some highlights from this entry:
- Do I hate Michael Cole? No. I really try to not be a 'hater' as I've worked with too many people in my life that were. They're no fun to be around. Cole is in a challenging spot trying to raise his game to the level of the antagonist Lawler, Cornette, Ventura, Heyman, JBL, and Bobby Heenan. I do know that our three man team will evolve on Raw nicely. Thsi has zero to do with some, like me by and large, who prefer a two man announce team. I'm not a big fan of the three man booth on Monday Night Football, BTW.
- Do I prefer reality based sports entertainment or the 'bigger than life' spectacle style of presentation? Reality based by far. Not big on eye rolling, "are you kidding me?" type presentations. The more believable and more plausible the better for me.
- Will JR and Michael Cole have a 'blow off match?' Good Lord, I hope not. Why continue to punish the audience? That ship has sailed plus after a 2nd abdominal surgery only a few weeks ago that's the last thing that I need to be doing. Here's a novel idea, how about more wrestlers getting in the mix?
- I'm looking forward to being in San Jose for Raw Monday night as the last Raw before a PPV is usually a strong effort. The success of Summer Slam largely rests on the shoulders of CM Punk and John Cena notwithstanding the Smackdown main event of Randy Orton vs. Christian for the World Title. I'm anxious to broadcast the longer bouts that are often featured on PPV. I don't know the announce team assignment for Summer Slam but I'll prepare like I'm going to do 'em all.
- Do I hate Michael Cole? No. I really try to not be a 'hater' as I've worked with too many people in my life that were. They're no fun to be around. Cole is in a challenging spot trying to raise his game to the level of the antagonist Lawler, Cornette, Ventura, Heyman, JBL, and Bobby Heenan. I do know that our three man team will evolve on Raw nicely. Thsi has zero to do with some, like me by and large, who prefer a two man announce team. I'm not a big fan of the three man booth on Monday Night Football, BTW.
- Do I prefer reality based sports entertainment or the 'bigger than life' spectacle style of presentation? Reality based by far. Not big on eye rolling, "are you kidding me?" type presentations. The more believable and more plausible the better for me.
- Will JR and Michael Cole have a 'blow off match?' Good Lord, I hope not. Why continue to punish the audience? That ship has sailed plus after a 2nd abdominal surgery only a few weeks ago that's the last thing that I need to be doing. Here's a novel idea, how about more wrestlers getting in the mix?
- I'm looking forward to being in San Jose for Raw Monday night as the last Raw before a PPV is usually a strong effort. The success of Summer Slam largely rests on the shoulders of CM Punk and John Cena notwithstanding the Smackdown main event of Randy Orton vs. Christian for the World Title. I'm anxious to broadcast the longer bouts that are often featured on PPV. I don't know the announce team assignment for Summer Slam but I'll prepare like I'm going to do 'em all.
Saturday, 9 July 2011
new Jim Ross Blog
WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross is back with another new blog over on jrsbarbq.com. Here are some highlights from this entry:
- Why are there no viable factions? Factions were awesome in preceding generations because there were more recognizable stars who could be cast as members of various factions. Replicating successful factions today can be accomplished, in theory, but not nearly as easily as it was when, say, the Horsemen, were formed. Plus, for factions to be successful they have to have success in the ring over an extended length of time and cannot be overstocked with members.
- Will Hulk Hogan ever return to WWE? I have no idea. I assume any thing is possible. I can't see Hogan returning to wrestle multiple matches in WWE due to his health issues but regarding this talent and his future I simply don't know and nothing would surprise me.
- Why are there not more 'top talent' surprises appearing on WWE TV and challenging WWE's incumbent top guys. Ever heard of contracts? Legal issues prevent talents from jumping from one brand to another PLUS who's out there that would make a massive impact if they just showed up live on RAW unannounced?
- Is CM Punk leaving WWE? I'm not involved in this matter whatsoever but from what I've read and what WWE has publically stated, Punk vs. Cena at the MITB PPV in Chicago, Punk's hometown, will be CM Punk's last, foreseeable bout in WWE....win, lose, or draw. As an outsider looking in, I'd say Punk will finish up Sunday July 17 as WWE has stated.
- Why are there no viable factions? Factions were awesome in preceding generations because there were more recognizable stars who could be cast as members of various factions. Replicating successful factions today can be accomplished, in theory, but not nearly as easily as it was when, say, the Horsemen, were formed. Plus, for factions to be successful they have to have success in the ring over an extended length of time and cannot be overstocked with members.
- Will Hulk Hogan ever return to WWE? I have no idea. I assume any thing is possible. I can't see Hogan returning to wrestle multiple matches in WWE due to his health issues but regarding this talent and his future I simply don't know and nothing would surprise me.
- Why are there not more 'top talent' surprises appearing on WWE TV and challenging WWE's incumbent top guys. Ever heard of contracts? Legal issues prevent talents from jumping from one brand to another PLUS who's out there that would make a massive impact if they just showed up live on RAW unannounced?
- Is CM Punk leaving WWE? I'm not involved in this matter whatsoever but from what I've read and what WWE has publically stated, Punk vs. Cena at the MITB PPV in Chicago, Punk's hometown, will be CM Punk's last, foreseeable bout in WWE....win, lose, or draw. As an outsider looking in, I'd say Punk will finish up Sunday July 17 as WWE has stated.
Saturday, 11 June 2011
New Jim Ross Blog - Highlights
Jim Ross is back with another blog at jrsbarbq.com. Here are some highlights from this entry:
- Great week of TV production this week in Stamford at WWE HQ. The nWo 15th Anniversary Legends Roundtable airs on WWE On Demand in July. Kevin Nash, Gene Okerlund and JJ Dillon were able to provide some great insight to the WCW/nWo days.
@RealKevinNash is still in great shape and still has some fuel in the tank the the desire to use it. Kevin added a great deal to the panel on the nWo discussion. It's a program that could have multiple parts if WWE wants to revisit it at some point.
I did 'wrap arounds' for three Monday Night Raw shows and three Monday Nitro Shows for WWE On Demand's Monday Night Wars series. These specific shows will air in the fall.
- Kevin said Scott Hall was doing "much, much better" as of recent days and that Scott was likely going to be the subject of a feature on ESPN. I was really happy to hear that Scott was getting healthier. I can attest to the fact that Scott Hall has one of the most creative minds in the business or at least he did when I was around him back in the day. Scott always possessed great wrestling instincts and had the ability to process in ring content and promo material as well as anyone.
- Emailers....What do I think of the recent Hulk-Warrior war of words? Nothing. It's none of my business and I'm not interested in following what appears to be a 'pissing contest.'
- Great week of TV production this week in Stamford at WWE HQ. The nWo 15th Anniversary Legends Roundtable airs on WWE On Demand in July. Kevin Nash, Gene Okerlund and JJ Dillon were able to provide some great insight to the WCW/nWo days.
@RealKevinNash is still in great shape and still has some fuel in the tank the the desire to use it. Kevin added a great deal to the panel on the nWo discussion. It's a program that could have multiple parts if WWE wants to revisit it at some point.
I did 'wrap arounds' for three Monday Night Raw shows and three Monday Nitro Shows for WWE On Demand's Monday Night Wars series. These specific shows will air in the fall.
- Kevin said Scott Hall was doing "much, much better" as of recent days and that Scott was likely going to be the subject of a feature on ESPN. I was really happy to hear that Scott was getting healthier. I can attest to the fact that Scott Hall has one of the most creative minds in the business or at least he did when I was around him back in the day. Scott always possessed great wrestling instincts and had the ability to process in ring content and promo material as well as anyone.
- Emailers....What do I think of the recent Hulk-Warrior war of words? Nothing. It's none of my business and I'm not interested in following what appears to be a 'pissing contest.'
Thursday, 26 May 2011
Jim Ross New Blog
Jim Ross is back with another blog over on jrsbarbq.com. Here are some highlights:
- It was fun to be a part of the Lawler-Cole bout Sunday at Over the Limit in the Key Arena and I was especially excited to discover once I arrived at the arena that @BretHart was in the house.
- Loved the Orton-Christian match and felt like it was the show stealer on the PPV. Two really skilled guys and once again it showed that Christian is underrated but is an important facet of Friday Night Smackdown. Orton is a major star, without question, but his best days should lie ahead.
- R Truth seems to have finally found a viable niche and he is one of the brighter aspects on Raw. Truth is embracing his new persona and I happen to think it fits him well.
- No...I have no idea if or when Randy Savage will be inducted into the WWE HOF or if he will go in with his former wife and valet, the late Miss Elizabeth. As I have said many times, it is obvious that both are deserving.
- Yes...I was impressed with the interaction between Alex Riley and The Miz Monday night on Raw as was, seemingly, the live audience in Portland. I am intrigued to see where Riley on Smackdown, I assume, and Miz, continue to evolve. Riley looked very impressive doling out the physicality on Miz on MNR.
- It was fun to be a part of the Lawler-Cole bout Sunday at Over the Limit in the Key Arena and I was especially excited to discover once I arrived at the arena that @BretHart was in the house.
- Loved the Orton-Christian match and felt like it was the show stealer on the PPV. Two really skilled guys and once again it showed that Christian is underrated but is an important facet of Friday Night Smackdown. Orton is a major star, without question, but his best days should lie ahead.
- R Truth seems to have finally found a viable niche and he is one of the brighter aspects on Raw. Truth is embracing his new persona and I happen to think it fits him well.
- No...I have no idea if or when Randy Savage will be inducted into the WWE HOF or if he will go in with his former wife and valet, the late Miss Elizabeth. As I have said many times, it is obvious that both are deserving.
- Yes...I was impressed with the interaction between Alex Riley and The Miz Monday night on Raw as was, seemingly, the live audience in Portland. I am intrigued to see where Riley on Smackdown, I assume, and Miz, continue to evolve. Riley looked very impressive doling out the physicality on Miz on MNR.
Sunday, 22 May 2011
New Jim Ross Blog - Thoughts on Randy Savage
Below are some highlights from Jim Ross' blog where he comments on Randy Savage:
"It's been a challenging week. First, the untimely death Thursday of 22 year old Oklahoma Sooners middle linebacker and a young man I befriended, Austin Box. Today we get the shocking news of the death of Randy Savage. Life is so fragile.....a few thoughts.
I was never close to Randy Savage but I had immense respect for his in ring work. Savage was a gifted high flier, had uncanny crowd psychology and a tough, athletic persona that could not be duplicated.
'Macho Man' Randy Savage was a legit star in the world of pro wrestling and one of the most famous wrestlers of any era.
Randy Savage is arguably one of the top 2-3 wrestlers that helped establish the WWE as the dominate promotion of its kind in the world. Savage deserves to be mentioned in the same sentence as Andre, Hulk, Piper, etc.
In my over four decades in the business, I have never encountered anyone who I perceived was as intense, 24X7, as 'Macho Man' Randy Savage. He was a gifted athlete, he played minor league baseball a handful of years, and brought artful athleticism and raw reality to his profession.
Before I ever stepped foot in WWE, I thought, as one who was earning a living in the business elsewhere, that the Savage-Steamboat match from WM3 was the best WWE match that I had ever seen. A handful of other bouts since then have ranked right up there with it but after a quarter of a century the 'Macho Man-Dragon' encounter from the Pontiac Silverdome still holds up today as an all time wrestling classic.
One never had to guess where they stood with Savage and he never had any issues expressing himself. He was, seemingly, always on edge or, perhaps more specifically, on point. Randy carried himself as one not to be trifled with and as a man who had great passion for his profession and unmatched intensity.
Fans of the genre of pro wrestling lost one of the most famous and skilled performers of all time this morning in Tampa when the former WWE Champion apparently had a heart attack while driving his vehicle with his wife of one year who was the sole passenger.
Our condolences go out to the Poffo family, Macho Man's friends and fans and to all whose lives were touched by 'Macho Madness.'"
"It's been a challenging week. First, the untimely death Thursday of 22 year old Oklahoma Sooners middle linebacker and a young man I befriended, Austin Box. Today we get the shocking news of the death of Randy Savage. Life is so fragile.....a few thoughts.
I was never close to Randy Savage but I had immense respect for his in ring work. Savage was a gifted high flier, had uncanny crowd psychology and a tough, athletic persona that could not be duplicated.
'Macho Man' Randy Savage was a legit star in the world of pro wrestling and one of the most famous wrestlers of any era.
Randy Savage is arguably one of the top 2-3 wrestlers that helped establish the WWE as the dominate promotion of its kind in the world. Savage deserves to be mentioned in the same sentence as Andre, Hulk, Piper, etc.
In my over four decades in the business, I have never encountered anyone who I perceived was as intense, 24X7, as 'Macho Man' Randy Savage. He was a gifted athlete, he played minor league baseball a handful of years, and brought artful athleticism and raw reality to his profession.
Before I ever stepped foot in WWE, I thought, as one who was earning a living in the business elsewhere, that the Savage-Steamboat match from WM3 was the best WWE match that I had ever seen. A handful of other bouts since then have ranked right up there with it but after a quarter of a century the 'Macho Man-Dragon' encounter from the Pontiac Silverdome still holds up today as an all time wrestling classic.
One never had to guess where they stood with Savage and he never had any issues expressing himself. He was, seemingly, always on edge or, perhaps more specifically, on point. Randy carried himself as one not to be trifled with and as a man who had great passion for his profession and unmatched intensity.
Fans of the genre of pro wrestling lost one of the most famous and skilled performers of all time this morning in Tampa when the former WWE Champion apparently had a heart attack while driving his vehicle with his wife of one year who was the sole passenger.
Our condolences go out to the Poffo family, Macho Man's friends and fans and to all whose lives were touched by 'Macho Madness.'"
Friday, 20 May 2011
New Jim Ross Blog Highlights
Jim Ross has a new blog entry up at http://www.JRSBARBQ.com/ Here are the highlights…
On Stealing Moves: ‘Stealing wrestling moves’ is so much to do about nothing in my opinion. If not, is Ed ‘Stranger’ Lewis spinning in his grave every time we see the occasional headlock utilized when an athlete actually applies logical, wrestling holds? Or what about circus trapeze artists when a wrestling match breaks down into not much more than a succession of flips, flops, and flies leading to an inside cradle for the eventual pin?
On Steve Austin & Tough Enough: @steveaustinBSR has made Tough Enough his own vehicle and if season #2 rolls around and Steve is able to interject himself from the beginning of the process, I’ll predict that next season’s Tough Enough will be even better. I love the editing and look of the show and could see a DVD extra on a WWE PPV featuring outtakes, etc. None of the kids have jumped off the TV at me as of yet but that could change anytime. @TheRock guest stars next Monday on the USA Network just before Raw from Portland, Oregon.
On His Bet With JBL: @jclayfield aka JBL and I have a bet on the NBA Western Conference Finals between Oklahoma City and Dallas. I’ve got the Thunder and JBL has the Mavs for a case of our Original BBQ Sauce vs. a case of John’s New Leaf iced tea. Unless Dirk Nowitski gets kidnapped, I may be getting ready to ship JR’s Original to the island of Bermuda.
On Working Memphis: No, I never worked in the Memphis territory. They had Lance Russell and Dave Brown and certainly didn’t need me. Lance, in particular, was one of the businesses all time great voices and a man of class and integrity which there wasn’t an abundance of in many old school, wrestling territories.
Be sure to check out the full blog at http://www.JRSBARBQ.com/
On Stealing Moves: ‘Stealing wrestling moves’ is so much to do about nothing in my opinion. If not, is Ed ‘Stranger’ Lewis spinning in his grave every time we see the occasional headlock utilized when an athlete actually applies logical, wrestling holds? Or what about circus trapeze artists when a wrestling match breaks down into not much more than a succession of flips, flops, and flies leading to an inside cradle for the eventual pin?
On Steve Austin & Tough Enough: @steveaustinBSR has made Tough Enough his own vehicle and if season #2 rolls around and Steve is able to interject himself from the beginning of the process, I’ll predict that next season’s Tough Enough will be even better. I love the editing and look of the show and could see a DVD extra on a WWE PPV featuring outtakes, etc. None of the kids have jumped off the TV at me as of yet but that could change anytime. @TheRock guest stars next Monday on the USA Network just before Raw from Portland, Oregon.
On His Bet With JBL: @jclayfield aka JBL and I have a bet on the NBA Western Conference Finals between Oklahoma City and Dallas. I’ve got the Thunder and JBL has the Mavs for a case of our Original BBQ Sauce vs. a case of John’s New Leaf iced tea. Unless Dirk Nowitski gets kidnapped, I may be getting ready to ship JR’s Original to the island of Bermuda.
On Working Memphis: No, I never worked in the Memphis territory. They had Lance Russell and Dave Brown and certainly didn’t need me. Lance, in particular, was one of the businesses all time great voices and a man of class and integrity which there wasn’t an abundance of in many old school, wrestling territories.
Be sure to check out the full blog at http://www.JRSBARBQ.com/
Friday, 29 April 2011
New JRs BBQ highlights Jim Ross
Jim Ross is back with another blog over on jrsbarbq.com. As usual, here are some of the highlights:
- Hopefully, Cole and I did not overly offend too many of you wrestling purists with our 'exhibition' Monday night. It earned the top quarter hour TV rating on the program for the night and that distinction has already been throughly analyzed by those who earn a living covering the genre. Lots of ways for that data to be dissected one can argue.
- My right hand is somewhat banged up and the x-rays were not overly encouraging Tuesday but it won't keep me from doing what I need to do on Sunday at Extreme Rules.
- Cole's tooth went to the bone on a knuckle on my right hand which caused bleeding from my hand and his lip for those that have asked. Apparently the risk of infection from a human tooth IE a bite or something like what occurred Monday night is potentially harmful so we've been very careful with the infection aspect of the 'wound' in addition to caring for a sore hand.
- Interesting that WWE Raw defeated both NBA playoff games Monday night in the TV ratings race. Based on NBA rights fees, WWE is a bargain for USA Network based on the ratings the program has earned year after year. One of those NBA games featured was my OKC Thunder.
- Congrats to Chris Jericho for his amazing run on DWTS on ABC. @IAmJericho is one of the most multi talented performers with which I've ever been associated. Without question, one has to assume that many doors were opened by Chris' performance on DWTS as it relates to potential, future gigs in 'Hollywood'. We're getting tons of emails and tweets @JRsBBQ asking when Jericho is coming back to WWE. I have heard nothing regarding this matter from any one in any official capacity. I do think that Chris will likely have another run in WWE but whether it is this year or next is completely Chris and the WWE's call. The day Jericho returns he will zoom up the ladder as arguably the most talented, all around grappler on the roster at this time.
- Hopefully, Cole and I did not overly offend too many of you wrestling purists with our 'exhibition' Monday night. It earned the top quarter hour TV rating on the program for the night and that distinction has already been throughly analyzed by those who earn a living covering the genre. Lots of ways for that data to be dissected one can argue.
- My right hand is somewhat banged up and the x-rays were not overly encouraging Tuesday but it won't keep me from doing what I need to do on Sunday at Extreme Rules.
- Cole's tooth went to the bone on a knuckle on my right hand which caused bleeding from my hand and his lip for those that have asked. Apparently the risk of infection from a human tooth IE a bite or something like what occurred Monday night is potentially harmful so we've been very careful with the infection aspect of the 'wound' in addition to caring for a sore hand.
- Interesting that WWE Raw defeated both NBA playoff games Monday night in the TV ratings race. Based on NBA rights fees, WWE is a bargain for USA Network based on the ratings the program has earned year after year. One of those NBA games featured was my OKC Thunder.
- Congrats to Chris Jericho for his amazing run on DWTS on ABC. @IAmJericho is one of the most multi talented performers with which I've ever been associated. Without question, one has to assume that many doors were opened by Chris' performance on DWTS as it relates to potential, future gigs in 'Hollywood'. We're getting tons of emails and tweets @JRsBBQ asking when Jericho is coming back to WWE. I have heard nothing regarding this matter from any one in any official capacity. I do think that Chris will likely have another run in WWE but whether it is this year or next is completely Chris and the WWE's call. The day Jericho returns he will zoom up the ladder as arguably the most talented, all around grappler on the roster at this time.
Friday, 25 March 2011
JR's New Blog Highlights
Several fans sent me a Tweet @JRsBBQ of the first match that Jerry Lawler and I ever announced together which was in 1983. Jerry was with his business partner at the time Jerry Jarrett and they were visiting Bill Watts on a TV night for Mid South Wrestling. Soon after this meeting, Watts and the two Jerry's made a talent trade that brought the Rock 'n Roll Express and Midnight Express (Condrey, Eaton, & Cornette) to Mid South. Both territories were able to freshen up their talent rosters via this timely trade.
The King sat in with me only on one match, as I recall, a tag match pitting Butch Reed & Jim Neidhart vs. Lanny Poffo and Iceman king Parsons. Who knew that a decade later that the two of us would form one of the longer lasting broadcast partnerships in TV wrestling history? To see it on You Tube try http://deck.ly/~xOLxT.
I missed out on the OU Football play by play position but the University made an excellent hire with 37 year old Toby Rowland. I'm disappointed that I didn't get a shot at my childhood 'dream job' but I'm happy for Toby and know that he will do a great job of underscoring the 'theater of the mind,' better known as radio, to the Sooner faithful.
Some of my friends feel that my long time association and name identity within pro wrestling over the years did not work in my favor. I'm not sure that I agree with that analogy but the bottom line is that it wasn't meant to be and as I said all along I felt that I was a long shot at best.
Look for Brock Lesnar to pop up on ESPN over the next few days, perhaps with Jonathan Coachman, for a 'unique' feature on the former WWE, UFC and NCAA Champion. Brock next fights June 11, at this time in Vancouver, against Junior Dos Santos. Of course Lesnar is one of the coaches for The Ultimate Fighter which debuts soon not to mention that Brock's book, co-written with Paul Heyman, will be in stores in a few weeks. I'm anxious to read Brock's book and hope that you check it out as well.
Speaking of UFC, they have a youthful fighter in Jon Jones who can perhaps headline three PPV's over a 12 month period if Bones can avoid injuries. The athletically gifted Jones, the youngest UFC Champion ever, is an extraordinarily unique fighter and, at 23 years of age, will recover from fights quicker than older competitors. The licensing and marketing potential for 'Bones' Jones is unlimited. To potentially be able to get 3 main events on PPV from Bones over a 12-14 month period of time is like printing money.
The Jones-Rashard Evans story over the UFC light Heavyweight Title is such a simple story to tell and to sell. Teacher vs. Pupil. Training camp partners. Jones wins 'Evans fight' vs Rua for the title, etc. I don't expect to hear amped up trash talking between the two men but I do expect that their naturally, competitive nature will be exploited as it should.
I got invited by the Celtics to attend their game in Atlanta on Friday night of WM27 week but the game conflicts with an appearance I will be on at the THQ location at WM Axxess. I'm actually going to play against The King in the new, WWE All Stars video game. I predict that Jerry will defeat me just as he will Cole in the Georgia Dome.
I might have actually been able to do some play by play while in Atlanta on Celtics radio with my pal and Celts voice Sean Grande.
For those attending Axxess, Lawler and I will also be at the WWE HOF booth signing autographs on Saturday morning from 10 am- noon. Plus, our JR's products will be on sale at the WWE merchandise stand throughout Axxess as well. Remember, no shipping charges at Axxess.
@joeystyles is lighting it up on Twitter. The artist also known as 'Stocky Balboa' is one of the more outspoken individuals in WWE and expresses himself freely on Twitter. Some day Joey and I may get to broadcast some lost classics for WWEClassics.com or WWE On Demand. Time will tell.
Have any of you checked out the Cauliflower Alley Club website at http://www.caulifloweralleyclub.org? I'm looking forward to attending their April banquet in Las Vegas along with several other WWE HOF'ers. Hope to see many old friends and fans there.
We'll all miss Sir Oliver Humperdink at CAC this year as 'Hump' passed away a few days ago at the age of 62 after suffering from bladder cancer. Humpy had those bulging eyes and when he, shall we say, partook of smokable herb, those saucer sized eyes became very, very red.
Or so I heard.
The man born as John Sutton will be missed by us all and will always be one of the all time great managers in the business but likely will also always be underrated just as will his amazing team of the Hollywood Blonds, Jerry Brown and Buddy Roberts.
Great managers knew exactly when to be seen and when to interject themselves and, above all else, knew how to enhance their talent's skills. Hump 'got it' and his Hollywood Blond duo had tag team skills that would easily work well today if tag team wrestling was being featured at all on a national level. The 'Blonds' utilized classic, timeless tag team strategy that I can still vividly recall from matches that they had in the 70's.
BTW and before I forget...if you want an autograph on this site, I do not sell them. I will sign for free but you have to include what you want signed and a self addressed stamped envelope or it won't get done. Send requests to: JR's BBQ, PO Box 721294, Norman, Oklahoma 73070.
In my four plus decades in the wrestling biz, I can't name anyone who stood their ground against a variety of power brokers and stayed loyal to their in ring persona more than new WWE Hall of Fame Inductee Abdullah the Butcher. Abby perfected his game plan decades ago and never deviated from it to any significant degree. He stayed independent in his thinking and managed his own career while becoming a financially secure, Global, main event performer. 'Butch' as the late, great Gary Hart used to call him, is also very astute. If someone pulled the wool over Abdullah's eyes, they only did it once. He gave me some great advice as a young man who was just getting into corporate management within this wacky business.
Abdullah the Butcher is a superb selection for the WWE Hall of Fame as he has stood the test of time and made the term 'Hardcore' fashionable. Who was more 'Hardcore' for more years than Abby? Seems to me that the Butcher was the true innovator of the hardcore style of wrestling featuring blood and weapons.
Remember, we do not ship outside the USA but http://www.wweshop.com does and they do a really good job. If you check out their site, you can find some outstanding deals on products and on shipping especially to the UK, Canada, and Germany.
@JRsBBQ on Twitter has over 114,000 followers and grows daily. Thanks.
We're getting very excited about WM27 in my old stomping grounds of Atlanta. The Mrs. and I enjoyed living in Atlanta so much back in the day. We were homeowners there and still have many, many friends who reside in the Peach State. Being able to announce wrestling from the old TBS studios on Techwood Drive ala Gordon Solie in his heyday was a thrill for me and was a 'boyhood dream' that I was able to experience.
Ah, the 'good old days' when broadcasters actually did play by play during pro wrestling matches....and when a tank of gasoline and a sack of groceries didn't bruise the bank account.
Thanks for stocking up with JR's products from our on line store as it seems as if many of you are planning on WM27 parties and tailgates. We appreciate the biz and you've still got time to get your orders delivered before the event if you hustle.
Boomer Sooner!
JR
The King sat in with me only on one match, as I recall, a tag match pitting Butch Reed & Jim Neidhart vs. Lanny Poffo and Iceman king Parsons. Who knew that a decade later that the two of us would form one of the longer lasting broadcast partnerships in TV wrestling history? To see it on You Tube try http://deck.ly/~xOLxT.
I missed out on the OU Football play by play position but the University made an excellent hire with 37 year old Toby Rowland. I'm disappointed that I didn't get a shot at my childhood 'dream job' but I'm happy for Toby and know that he will do a great job of underscoring the 'theater of the mind,' better known as radio, to the Sooner faithful.
Some of my friends feel that my long time association and name identity within pro wrestling over the years did not work in my favor. I'm not sure that I agree with that analogy but the bottom line is that it wasn't meant to be and as I said all along I felt that I was a long shot at best.
Look for Brock Lesnar to pop up on ESPN over the next few days, perhaps with Jonathan Coachman, for a 'unique' feature on the former WWE, UFC and NCAA Champion. Brock next fights June 11, at this time in Vancouver, against Junior Dos Santos. Of course Lesnar is one of the coaches for The Ultimate Fighter which debuts soon not to mention that Brock's book, co-written with Paul Heyman, will be in stores in a few weeks. I'm anxious to read Brock's book and hope that you check it out as well.
Speaking of UFC, they have a youthful fighter in Jon Jones who can perhaps headline three PPV's over a 12 month period if Bones can avoid injuries. The athletically gifted Jones, the youngest UFC Champion ever, is an extraordinarily unique fighter and, at 23 years of age, will recover from fights quicker than older competitors. The licensing and marketing potential for 'Bones' Jones is unlimited. To potentially be able to get 3 main events on PPV from Bones over a 12-14 month period of time is like printing money.
The Jones-Rashard Evans story over the UFC light Heavyweight Title is such a simple story to tell and to sell. Teacher vs. Pupil. Training camp partners. Jones wins 'Evans fight' vs Rua for the title, etc. I don't expect to hear amped up trash talking between the two men but I do expect that their naturally, competitive nature will be exploited as it should.
I got invited by the Celtics to attend their game in Atlanta on Friday night of WM27 week but the game conflicts with an appearance I will be on at the THQ location at WM Axxess. I'm actually going to play against The King in the new, WWE All Stars video game. I predict that Jerry will defeat me just as he will Cole in the Georgia Dome.
I might have actually been able to do some play by play while in Atlanta on Celtics radio with my pal and Celts voice Sean Grande.
For those attending Axxess, Lawler and I will also be at the WWE HOF booth signing autographs on Saturday morning from 10 am- noon. Plus, our JR's products will be on sale at the WWE merchandise stand throughout Axxess as well. Remember, no shipping charges at Axxess.
@joeystyles is lighting it up on Twitter. The artist also known as 'Stocky Balboa' is one of the more outspoken individuals in WWE and expresses himself freely on Twitter. Some day Joey and I may get to broadcast some lost classics for WWEClassics.com or WWE On Demand. Time will tell.
Have any of you checked out the Cauliflower Alley Club website at http://www.caulifloweralleyclub.org? I'm looking forward to attending their April banquet in Las Vegas along with several other WWE HOF'ers. Hope to see many old friends and fans there.
We'll all miss Sir Oliver Humperdink at CAC this year as 'Hump' passed away a few days ago at the age of 62 after suffering from bladder cancer. Humpy had those bulging eyes and when he, shall we say, partook of smokable herb, those saucer sized eyes became very, very red.
Or so I heard.
The man born as John Sutton will be missed by us all and will always be one of the all time great managers in the business but likely will also always be underrated just as will his amazing team of the Hollywood Blonds, Jerry Brown and Buddy Roberts.
Great managers knew exactly when to be seen and when to interject themselves and, above all else, knew how to enhance their talent's skills. Hump 'got it' and his Hollywood Blond duo had tag team skills that would easily work well today if tag team wrestling was being featured at all on a national level. The 'Blonds' utilized classic, timeless tag team strategy that I can still vividly recall from matches that they had in the 70's.
BTW and before I forget...if you want an autograph on this site, I do not sell them. I will sign for free but you have to include what you want signed and a self addressed stamped envelope or it won't get done. Send requests to: JR's BBQ, PO Box 721294, Norman, Oklahoma 73070.
In my four plus decades in the wrestling biz, I can't name anyone who stood their ground against a variety of power brokers and stayed loyal to their in ring persona more than new WWE Hall of Fame Inductee Abdullah the Butcher. Abby perfected his game plan decades ago and never deviated from it to any significant degree. He stayed independent in his thinking and managed his own career while becoming a financially secure, Global, main event performer. 'Butch' as the late, great Gary Hart used to call him, is also very astute. If someone pulled the wool over Abdullah's eyes, they only did it once. He gave me some great advice as a young man who was just getting into corporate management within this wacky business.
Abdullah the Butcher is a superb selection for the WWE Hall of Fame as he has stood the test of time and made the term 'Hardcore' fashionable. Who was more 'Hardcore' for more years than Abby? Seems to me that the Butcher was the true innovator of the hardcore style of wrestling featuring blood and weapons.
Remember, we do not ship outside the USA but http://www.wweshop.com does and they do a really good job. If you check out their site, you can find some outstanding deals on products and on shipping especially to the UK, Canada, and Germany.
@JRsBBQ on Twitter has over 114,000 followers and grows daily. Thanks.
We're getting very excited about WM27 in my old stomping grounds of Atlanta. The Mrs. and I enjoyed living in Atlanta so much back in the day. We were homeowners there and still have many, many friends who reside in the Peach State. Being able to announce wrestling from the old TBS studios on Techwood Drive ala Gordon Solie in his heyday was a thrill for me and was a 'boyhood dream' that I was able to experience.
Ah, the 'good old days' when broadcasters actually did play by play during pro wrestling matches....and when a tank of gasoline and a sack of groceries didn't bruise the bank account.
Thanks for stocking up with JR's products from our on line store as it seems as if many of you are planning on WM27 parties and tailgates. We appreciate the biz and you've still got time to get your orders delivered before the event if you hustle.
Boomer Sooner!
JR
Monday, 21 March 2011
Jim Ross New Blog
Jim Ross is back with another blog over on jrsbarbq.com. Here are some of the highlights:
- The next Legends Roundtable program will be out in a few weeks and it's on Canada's influence on pro wrestling. Another interesting and intriguing topic.
- The THQ commercial that was voiced by The King and me for the WWE All Stars video game has been all over the NCAA March Madness basketball tourney Saturday. Several of my buddies have text me that they heard it as did I, surprisingly so, several times during the tournament games. "Business Has Picked Up!"
- BTW my ankle is still tender but isn't as swollen and is improving. I like to think that I have a relatively high threshold of pain so the ankle issue is more of a nuisance than anything now.
- Tough Enough, by all accounts, was very successful and now it will be interesting to see how the producers, etc edit the show for air. TE premiers right after Monday Night Raw the night after Wrestlemania 27. I know that Steve Austin enjoyed his experience on TE especially working with such a dedicated and talented crew.
- Yes....I do think that Wade Barrett is a bright future in WWE and I also think that after WM27 concludes that Barrett will be among many younger talents that will be expected and counted upon to raise their game and to build equity into future, main event opportunities in WWE. Barrett is and looks athletic and can talk. I like his upside.
- The next Legends Roundtable program will be out in a few weeks and it's on Canada's influence on pro wrestling. Another interesting and intriguing topic.
- The THQ commercial that was voiced by The King and me for the WWE All Stars video game has been all over the NCAA March Madness basketball tourney Saturday. Several of my buddies have text me that they heard it as did I, surprisingly so, several times during the tournament games. "Business Has Picked Up!"
- BTW my ankle is still tender but isn't as swollen and is improving. I like to think that I have a relatively high threshold of pain so the ankle issue is more of a nuisance than anything now.
- Tough Enough, by all accounts, was very successful and now it will be interesting to see how the producers, etc edit the show for air. TE premiers right after Monday Night Raw the night after Wrestlemania 27. I know that Steve Austin enjoyed his experience on TE especially working with such a dedicated and talented crew.
- Yes....I do think that Wade Barrett is a bright future in WWE and I also think that after WM27 concludes that Barrett will be among many younger talents that will be expected and counted upon to raise their game and to build equity into future, main event opportunities in WWE. Barrett is and looks athletic and can talk. I like his upside.
Monday, 14 March 2011
JR's New Blog Highlights
Jim Ross is back with another blog on jrsbarbq.com where he talks about UFC purchasing Strikeforce. Here are some of the wrestling-related highlights:
- It is still a head scratcher to me as to what role @TheRock will play, if any, in the WWE Title Bout at WM27. A good piece of road has been traveled in that vehicle to not deliver the good in some fashion, or so it would seem. This mater alone makes this Wrestlemania hard to definitively predict.
- WM27 ticket sales are well north of 50,000 paid for well over a $5M gate and I'm predicting that the event will do between 65-75,000 fans for a gate of over $6M and perhaps getting close to $7M. When I broadcast the first event ever in the Georgia Dome, an Atlanta Falcon exhibition football game, in 1992, never in my wildest dream did I ever imagine that I would be attending a wrestling event in the house that Deion Sanders used to electrify that it would be packed.
- It is still a head scratcher to me as to what role @TheRock will play, if any, in the WWE Title Bout at WM27. A good piece of road has been traveled in that vehicle to not deliver the good in some fashion, or so it would seem. This mater alone makes this Wrestlemania hard to definitively predict.
- WM27 ticket sales are well north of 50,000 paid for well over a $5M gate and I'm predicting that the event will do between 65-75,000 fans for a gate of over $6M and perhaps getting close to $7M. When I broadcast the first event ever in the Georgia Dome, an Atlanta Falcon exhibition football game, in 1992, never in my wildest dream did I ever imagine that I would be attending a wrestling event in the house that Deion Sanders used to electrify that it would be packed.
Tuesday, 8 March 2011
Jim Ross BBQ New blog highlights
Jim Ross is back with another blog on jrsbarbq.com, looking at last night's RAW. Here are some highlights:
- Thought the cold open to the show featuring Undertaker/HHH was on the money and edited well. WWE TV folks do a marvelous job with their video features. IMO the Taker-HHH match could efficiently be promoted via video packages of the two future WWE HOF'ers greatest moments in WWE.
- Keep an eye on Brodus Clay. I think that he can be something special and him manifesting that particular 'it' is on him and how well he maximizes his minutes on TV. He's a big, monster of a man who mentally seems to 'get it.'
- Congrats to Sunny on being named to the 2011 WWE HOF class. She really started it all with the risqué, Diva personification and portrayed a very effective 'bad girl.' One might say that the forecast for Atlanta the first weekend of April are for 'Sunny days.'
- The Dallas/WWE fans definitely came to see Stone Cold Steve Austin. Although Austin did not have that much to say nor did he overstay his welcome by any stretch, Austin stole the show Monday night and seemed to be having a great time interacting with the fans and even the cameramen. Austin's fans long ago made a strong emotional bond with the Texas Rattlesnake that will seemingly last forever. @steveaustinBSR, on Twitter, can still command an audience as good as any WWE performer today or any previous generation.
- Michael Cole had the tables turned on him with Austin becoming the special referee for Cole's WM27 match w/ Jerry Lawler. It will be interesting to see how 'Cole sore' reacts this Friday night on Smackdown and again next Monday from St. Louis on Raw. Cole draws as much villain angst as anyone on the Raw roster and his match with the King is one of the most talked about bouts that we will see in Atlanta. I think that Lawler ought to make Cole wear a diaper when, not if, the King gets his hand raised at Jerry's first ever Wrestlemania match.
- Thought the cold open to the show featuring Undertaker/HHH was on the money and edited well. WWE TV folks do a marvelous job with their video features. IMO the Taker-HHH match could efficiently be promoted via video packages of the two future WWE HOF'ers greatest moments in WWE.
- Keep an eye on Brodus Clay. I think that he can be something special and him manifesting that particular 'it' is on him and how well he maximizes his minutes on TV. He's a big, monster of a man who mentally seems to 'get it.'
- Congrats to Sunny on being named to the 2011 WWE HOF class. She really started it all with the risqué, Diva personification and portrayed a very effective 'bad girl.' One might say that the forecast for Atlanta the first weekend of April are for 'Sunny days.'
- The Dallas/WWE fans definitely came to see Stone Cold Steve Austin. Although Austin did not have that much to say nor did he overstay his welcome by any stretch, Austin stole the show Monday night and seemed to be having a great time interacting with the fans and even the cameramen. Austin's fans long ago made a strong emotional bond with the Texas Rattlesnake that will seemingly last forever. @steveaustinBSR, on Twitter, can still command an audience as good as any WWE performer today or any previous generation.
- Michael Cole had the tables turned on him with Austin becoming the special referee for Cole's WM27 match w/ Jerry Lawler. It will be interesting to see how 'Cole sore' reacts this Friday night on Smackdown and again next Monday from St. Louis on Raw. Cole draws as much villain angst as anyone on the Raw roster and his match with the King is one of the most talked about bouts that we will see in Atlanta. I think that Lawler ought to make Cole wear a diaper when, not if, the King gets his hand raised at Jerry's first ever Wrestlemania match.
Friday, 25 February 2011
Mistico/Sin Cara news
When Sin Cara (Mistico) was introduced at WWE's press conference in Mexico yesterday, he came out in a Mistico style mask before taking it off to reveal his new WWE mask. Sin Cara reportedly means "Faceless."
WWE has setup a Facebook page for him at facebook.com/WWESinCara and a Twitter account is being setup. WWE will begin airing clips from the press conference on this week's TV and Monday's RAW. Mistico's signing with WWE is being covered my all the media in Mexico as it's considered a big deal.
Sin spoke at the press conference and said he doesn't know which brand he will end up on but said he is ready when called and proud to be working for the greatest promotion in the world. Lucha Libre journalist Kris Zellner expects Cara to end up on the SmackDown brand with Rey Mysterio and Alberto Del Rio.
WWE has setup a Facebook page for him at facebook.com/WWESinCara and a Twitter account is being setup. WWE will begin airing clips from the press conference on this week's TV and Monday's RAW. Mistico's signing with WWE is being covered my all the media in Mexico as it's considered a big deal.
Sin spoke at the press conference and said he doesn't know which brand he will end up on but said he is ready when called and proud to be working for the greatest promotion in the world. Lucha Libre journalist Kris Zellner expects Cara to end up on the SmackDown brand with Rey Mysterio and Alberto Del Rio.
Jim Ross New Tweets RE: Mistico
Jim Ross wrote the following on Twitter about WWE's new star, Sin Cara:
"Mistico is signed, sealed & delivered w/ WWE. Now known as Sin Cara. Helluva young hand. A new star looms on the horizon. Congrats Sin Cara. Every major media outlet in Mexico City present 4 Sin Cara media announcement. He's doing 1 on 1's now w/ them including espn deportes. It was great 2 rep WWE in Mexico City 4 Sin Cara signing anouncement. Appreciate the opportunity to step back on the field, so 2 speak."
"Mistico is signed, sealed & delivered w/ WWE. Now known as Sin Cara. Helluva young hand. A new star looms on the horizon. Congrats Sin Cara. Every major media outlet in Mexico City present 4 Sin Cara media announcement. He's doing 1 on 1's now w/ them including espn deportes. It was great 2 rep WWE in Mexico City 4 Sin Cara signing anouncement. Appreciate the opportunity to step back on the field, so 2 speak."
Jerry Lawler Interview Highlights
Jim Ross' future with WWE:
"JR and I had some tremendous chemistry, but I don't think you've seen the last of that. I think JR will be back on the air in some capacity. He's too good not to utilise. A lot of people don't realise what the situation is with him. He had a couple — I guess three now — real serious bouts of Bell's Palsy, which is very similar in effects to a stroke.
They don't really know, but they think the attacks are brought on by stress. Nobody takes their job more seriously than good old JR. The reason Vince has kept him off TV all this time is because he's concerned with his health. He's worried that if he puts him back out there regularly, he'll have another Bell's Palsy attack."
His feud with The Miz:
"I thought the matches, especially the TLC match with The Miz, were good. I know that after the match was over, when I came back to the Gorilla Position, everybody standing there gave me a standing ovation. Vince came over and hugged me and said: 'Man-oh-man, what a great match!'"
Wrestling at WrestleMania:
"I've been with WWE for 17 years and that's something I've never achieved. I remember in 2007, when Vince came to me and said they were going to induct me into the Hall of Fame, I said that I didn't want to. He said: 'What do you mean, you don't want to?' I replied: 'Most people feel like your career is over when you go into the Hall of Fame, like in baseball or football or something. Also, I've never done that much here, Vince. I've never won a title, I've never even wrestled on a WrestleMania.' He said: 'What? You've never wrestled on a Wrestlemania in all the years you've been here? That's a tragedy. We've got to fix that next year.'
That was his mindset then, but things get put on the backburner. First 2008 came and I didn't get a match, then 2009 came and I didn't get a match, then 2010. But I must say that there's never really been a point in time in those years when I've been involved as much as I have been as of late. So if there ever was a time for it to happen, I think this would be the most advantageous.
And would I love to have a WrestleMania match? Oh boy, yes. Other than getting inducted into the Hall of Fame, that would maybe be the highlight of my career to finally get to perform there."
"JR and I had some tremendous chemistry, but I don't think you've seen the last of that. I think JR will be back on the air in some capacity. He's too good not to utilise. A lot of people don't realise what the situation is with him. He had a couple — I guess three now — real serious bouts of Bell's Palsy, which is very similar in effects to a stroke.
They don't really know, but they think the attacks are brought on by stress. Nobody takes their job more seriously than good old JR. The reason Vince has kept him off TV all this time is because he's concerned with his health. He's worried that if he puts him back out there regularly, he'll have another Bell's Palsy attack."
His feud with The Miz:
"I thought the matches, especially the TLC match with The Miz, were good. I know that after the match was over, when I came back to the Gorilla Position, everybody standing there gave me a standing ovation. Vince came over and hugged me and said: 'Man-oh-man, what a great match!'"
Wrestling at WrestleMania:
"I've been with WWE for 17 years and that's something I've never achieved. I remember in 2007, when Vince came to me and said they were going to induct me into the Hall of Fame, I said that I didn't want to. He said: 'What do you mean, you don't want to?' I replied: 'Most people feel like your career is over when you go into the Hall of Fame, like in baseball or football or something. Also, I've never done that much here, Vince. I've never won a title, I've never even wrestled on a WrestleMania.' He said: 'What? You've never wrestled on a Wrestlemania in all the years you've been here? That's a tragedy. We've got to fix that next year.'
That was his mindset then, but things get put on the backburner. First 2008 came and I didn't get a match, then 2009 came and I didn't get a match, then 2010. But I must say that there's never really been a point in time in those years when I've been involved as much as I have been as of late. So if there ever was a time for it to happen, I think this would be the most advantageous.
And would I love to have a WrestleMania match? Oh boy, yes. Other than getting inducted into the Hall of Fame, that would maybe be the highlight of my career to finally get to perform there."
Sunday, 20 February 2011
More Jim Ross Blog Highlights
Jim Ross is back with another blog over on jrsbarbq.com. Here are a few highlights from this entry:
Jerry Lawler and his match with The Miz:
"Any one who thinks that it's simply not possible for Jerry Lawler, at age 61 and on a week where he buried his 90 year old mother, to win the WWE title against the Miz this Sunday at the Elimination Chamber needs to rethink their position. It is possible and it damn well could happen. I agree that the King is the underdog going in but what a story for the ages it would make if the WWE HOF'er did win the title. I'm not saying bet the farm on it but IF Jerry Lawler were to somehow, by hook or crook, defeat the Miz Sunday it would be one of the hottest topics around the WWE water cooler in years.
I admit that I legitimately have an emotional investment in this one because of my friendship with Jerry and after seeing first hand what he went through this week.
At least can we all agree that stranger things have happened in WWE over the years can we not?
Miz might not realize it today but Miz will be a better wrestler over the long haul after the learning experience that he will have Sunday night competing with the King."
The underrated William Regal:
"William Regal's brief yet effective cameo on the vintage (ugh) Khali Kiss Kam Monday night on Raw was yet another example of how talented the Brit truly is and why I consider Regal one of the most underrated talents in WWE. He's also a legit tough dude let me assure you."
Jerry Lawler and his match with The Miz:
"Any one who thinks that it's simply not possible for Jerry Lawler, at age 61 and on a week where he buried his 90 year old mother, to win the WWE title against the Miz this Sunday at the Elimination Chamber needs to rethink their position. It is possible and it damn well could happen. I agree that the King is the underdog going in but what a story for the ages it would make if the WWE HOF'er did win the title. I'm not saying bet the farm on it but IF Jerry Lawler were to somehow, by hook or crook, defeat the Miz Sunday it would be one of the hottest topics around the WWE water cooler in years.
I admit that I legitimately have an emotional investment in this one because of my friendship with Jerry and after seeing first hand what he went through this week.
At least can we all agree that stranger things have happened in WWE over the years can we not?
Miz might not realize it today but Miz will be a better wrestler over the long haul after the learning experience that he will have Sunday night competing with the King."
The underrated William Regal:
"William Regal's brief yet effective cameo on the vintage (ugh) Khali Kiss Kam Monday night on Raw was yet another example of how talented the Brit truly is and why I consider Regal one of the most underrated talents in WWE. He's also a legit tough dude let me assure you."
New Jim Ross Blog Highlights
Jim Ross is back with another blog on jrsbarbq.com. Here are highlights:
SmackDown going live:
"No...I don't ever see Friday Night Smackdown going live, full time IE weekly. It might happen occasionally but it isn't cost effective or travel friendly to do live TV on Mondays, Fridays, and some Sundays and still try to do live event touring. Makes no sense."
The Angle-Jarrett storyline in TNA:
"An emailer asked me what I thought about recent TNA storylines involving Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Jarrett and their children. I'm not a regular viewer of TNA first of all but what I have seen of this storyline that's allegedly based in reality isn't my cup of tea. I could care less what the adults do in their storyline but having minor children involved doesn't personally work for me. TNA isn't my hill to die upon and I harbor no ill will toward them but I find it challenging to believe that some individuals actually think that this is effective, episodic TV."
Tonight's Elimination Chamber:
"I'm anxiously looking forward to Sunday's Elimination Chamber PPV from WWE that emanates from Oakland. Obviously, and based on precedent, the Chamber bouts will occupy the majority of the ring time on this event but my focus is on the King vs. Miz bout for the WWE Title. Miz will likely see every trick in the wrestler's handbook in this one and I don't expect this title bout to be a marathon. It can't be a marathon bout if The King Jerry Lawler wants to win the WWE Title IMO. The 61 year old WWE HOF'er, who buried his 90 year old mother on Wednesday, needs to essentially tell us what time it is and not how to make the watch when Jerry looks to make history. Not only would Jerry be the oldest WWE Champion ever, or so I think, he would also be in rarefied air as a WWE Hall of Famer who wins the title after being inducted into the WWE HOF."
SmackDown going live:
"No...I don't ever see Friday Night Smackdown going live, full time IE weekly. It might happen occasionally but it isn't cost effective or travel friendly to do live TV on Mondays, Fridays, and some Sundays and still try to do live event touring. Makes no sense."
The Angle-Jarrett storyline in TNA:
"An emailer asked me what I thought about recent TNA storylines involving Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Jarrett and their children. I'm not a regular viewer of TNA first of all but what I have seen of this storyline that's allegedly based in reality isn't my cup of tea. I could care less what the adults do in their storyline but having minor children involved doesn't personally work for me. TNA isn't my hill to die upon and I harbor no ill will toward them but I find it challenging to believe that some individuals actually think that this is effective, episodic TV."
Tonight's Elimination Chamber:
"I'm anxiously looking forward to Sunday's Elimination Chamber PPV from WWE that emanates from Oakland. Obviously, and based on precedent, the Chamber bouts will occupy the majority of the ring time on this event but my focus is on the King vs. Miz bout for the WWE Title. Miz will likely see every trick in the wrestler's handbook in this one and I don't expect this title bout to be a marathon. It can't be a marathon bout if The King Jerry Lawler wants to win the WWE Title IMO. The 61 year old WWE HOF'er, who buried his 90 year old mother on Wednesday, needs to essentially tell us what time it is and not how to make the watch when Jerry looks to make history. Not only would Jerry be the oldest WWE Champion ever, or so I think, he would also be in rarefied air as a WWE Hall of Famer who wins the title after being inducted into the WWE HOF."
Wednesday, 16 February 2011
New Jim Ross Blog Highlights
Big night on MNR to say the least. Here are some thoughts.....
The WWE hit a home run when they brought back Dwayne Johnson to be the Host of Wrestlemania 27. Who would have been a better choice?
For my money....no one.
Sorry, young Mr. Beiber.
The Rock's Raw closing promo was golden. I smelled money while he was commanding the live audience. My instincts tell me that fans watching at home were just as emotionally invested as were the fans in Anaheim.
Rock created as much magic Monday Night in Anaheim than Walt Disney did on his best day in the same city.
Hopefully, all the talents who were still at the Honda Center locker room area were listening closely to what the Rock said, when he said it, and saw how he was a majestic maestro who had the live audience in the palm of his hand.
One could tell that Rock was enjoying himself. His DNA is 'ring worthy.'
Great promo men over the years had one common denominator. They all could 'feel' the audience.
Rock felt it Monday night.
He once told me that what he always missed most about appearing in WWE was the adrenaline rush that he got from the live audience. Nothing on Earth can replicate that unique feeling for any entertainer/athlete, etc.
Trust me on that one. (Announcers kill for moments like Monday night.)
Some fans are hammering us on Twitter @JRsBBQ proclaiming that it will be Rock vs. Cena at WM27. That's not what I heard. I heard that Rock was Hosting the event which works very well for me. Will there be some sort of Rock/Cena interaction? Sounds that way to me which is why I'm 'staying tuned.'
With Rock as the Host of the biggest WWE event of the year inside the Georgia Dome, fans can expect the unexpected.
WWE and the Rock aren't collaborating at WM27 without the Rock making a significant IMPACT in Atlanta.
How does the man that Hollywood knows as Dwayne Johnson make an impact w/o wrestling in a match?
Very easily. Rock did it tonight and never laid a hand on anyone.
All I know is that business picked up in WWE Monday night and with all that is planned for WM27 I can't wait to attend the event live.
I expect more huge announcements to come at the Elimination Chamber PPV and soon thereafter as in 2/21/11.
Emailer...Who is the RAW GM? Answer....I don't know and furthermore I don't care. When we're supposed to know we will. I'm much more interested in the build to WM27 than I ever will be about who the mysterious (not my descriptor) Raw General manager may or may not be.
Twitter @JRsBBQ....Is the Rock coming back to wrestle full time? That's not what I got out of Raw's most electrifying moment in years Monday night. Rock is making an appearance at WM27 to contribute in a major, likely shocking, way to the biggest WWE PPV of the year. Bottom line regarding this question on Twitter is that I DON'T KNOW but I would doubt it. I'm very excited about Wrestlemania. My black hat's off to WWE.
Emailer....Is Chris Jericho's 2nd book 'Undisputed' better than Chris' first book, 'A Lion's Tale?' That's like asking me if I like our Original BBQ Sauce better than our HOT BBQ Sauce. Depends on the moment/dish. I loved both of Jericho's books but read the 2nd book much quicker. I really liked 'Undisputed' and was pleasantly surprised at how much detail Jericho went into regarding many backstage dealings in WWE, many of which I was involved. I admire Chris' honesty plus his story telling abilities are superb. Bottom line, I strongly suggest that if you are a fan of the wrestling biz that you read this book ASAP.
Emailer...Is HBK going into the WWE HOF alone? Of course not. One can surmise that WWE is going to spend all their available TV time promoting the Elimination Chamber this Sunday on PPV and then begin rolling out other 2011 WWE HOF'ers that will be inducted the night before WM27 in Atlanta. I think this class will be stout and the presenters will be impressive. I wouldn't miss this event live for any thing. That reminds me, we need tickets.
I get a kick out of how vilified I am at times on some MMA message boards because "that damn pro wrestling guy" has the audacity to comment on MMA. I think many wrestling fans enjoy MMA plus many MMA fans used to be devout pro wrestling fans if I'm not mistaken. Plus, I'm a big fan. Plan and simply put I am a fan of MMA and enjoy commenting on it. Some people actually enjoy reading my opinions whether they agree with them or not. Producing and critiquing a MMA broadcast isn't that foreign to doing the same thing in the business that I have been a part of since '74.
Broadcasting is broadcasting even though many within the media, TV, etc look down their noses at pro wrestling broadcasters because of the individual's insecure bias regarding their views of the show biz based genre. To those folks I say, "Lighten Up Francis."
Our weekend promotion with our HOT BBQ Sauce was a hit. Thanks a million for the business. Please tell a friend about our products and keep us in mind if you need gifts for any occasion. With every order, you'll receive personally autographed swag.
Going to pay my respects this week to the King's Mom who I thought the world of and who passed away Sunday at 90. If the Good Lord would give me 90 years above ground, I think I would take it in a heart beat.
Thanks for reading our blog and following us on Twitter @JRsBBQ. Keep those orders coming. Sending out a big order to Steve Austin on Tuesday.....actually to his Lab Hershey...it's a long story.
Boomer Sooner!
J.R.
The WWE hit a home run when they brought back Dwayne Johnson to be the Host of Wrestlemania 27. Who would have been a better choice?
For my money....no one.
Sorry, young Mr. Beiber.
The Rock's Raw closing promo was golden. I smelled money while he was commanding the live audience. My instincts tell me that fans watching at home were just as emotionally invested as were the fans in Anaheim.
Rock created as much magic Monday Night in Anaheim than Walt Disney did on his best day in the same city.
Hopefully, all the talents who were still at the Honda Center locker room area were listening closely to what the Rock said, when he said it, and saw how he was a majestic maestro who had the live audience in the palm of his hand.
One could tell that Rock was enjoying himself. His DNA is 'ring worthy.'
Great promo men over the years had one common denominator. They all could 'feel' the audience.
Rock felt it Monday night.
He once told me that what he always missed most about appearing in WWE was the adrenaline rush that he got from the live audience. Nothing on Earth can replicate that unique feeling for any entertainer/athlete, etc.
Trust me on that one. (Announcers kill for moments like Monday night.)
Some fans are hammering us on Twitter @JRsBBQ proclaiming that it will be Rock vs. Cena at WM27. That's not what I heard. I heard that Rock was Hosting the event which works very well for me. Will there be some sort of Rock/Cena interaction? Sounds that way to me which is why I'm 'staying tuned.'
With Rock as the Host of the biggest WWE event of the year inside the Georgia Dome, fans can expect the unexpected.
WWE and the Rock aren't collaborating at WM27 without the Rock making a significant IMPACT in Atlanta.
How does the man that Hollywood knows as Dwayne Johnson make an impact w/o wrestling in a match?
Very easily. Rock did it tonight and never laid a hand on anyone.
All I know is that business picked up in WWE Monday night and with all that is planned for WM27 I can't wait to attend the event live.
I expect more huge announcements to come at the Elimination Chamber PPV and soon thereafter as in 2/21/11.
Emailer...Who is the RAW GM? Answer....I don't know and furthermore I don't care. When we're supposed to know we will. I'm much more interested in the build to WM27 than I ever will be about who the mysterious (not my descriptor) Raw General manager may or may not be.
Twitter @JRsBBQ....Is the Rock coming back to wrestle full time? That's not what I got out of Raw's most electrifying moment in years Monday night. Rock is making an appearance at WM27 to contribute in a major, likely shocking, way to the biggest WWE PPV of the year. Bottom line regarding this question on Twitter is that I DON'T KNOW but I would doubt it. I'm very excited about Wrestlemania. My black hat's off to WWE.
Emailer....Is Chris Jericho's 2nd book 'Undisputed' better than Chris' first book, 'A Lion's Tale?' That's like asking me if I like our Original BBQ Sauce better than our HOT BBQ Sauce. Depends on the moment/dish. I loved both of Jericho's books but read the 2nd book much quicker. I really liked 'Undisputed' and was pleasantly surprised at how much detail Jericho went into regarding many backstage dealings in WWE, many of which I was involved. I admire Chris' honesty plus his story telling abilities are superb. Bottom line, I strongly suggest that if you are a fan of the wrestling biz that you read this book ASAP.
Emailer...Is HBK going into the WWE HOF alone? Of course not. One can surmise that WWE is going to spend all their available TV time promoting the Elimination Chamber this Sunday on PPV and then begin rolling out other 2011 WWE HOF'ers that will be inducted the night before WM27 in Atlanta. I think this class will be stout and the presenters will be impressive. I wouldn't miss this event live for any thing. That reminds me, we need tickets.
I get a kick out of how vilified I am at times on some MMA message boards because "that damn pro wrestling guy" has the audacity to comment on MMA. I think many wrestling fans enjoy MMA plus many MMA fans used to be devout pro wrestling fans if I'm not mistaken. Plus, I'm a big fan. Plan and simply put I am a fan of MMA and enjoy commenting on it. Some people actually enjoy reading my opinions whether they agree with them or not. Producing and critiquing a MMA broadcast isn't that foreign to doing the same thing in the business that I have been a part of since '74.
Broadcasting is broadcasting even though many within the media, TV, etc look down their noses at pro wrestling broadcasters because of the individual's insecure bias regarding their views of the show biz based genre. To those folks I say, "Lighten Up Francis."
Our weekend promotion with our HOT BBQ Sauce was a hit. Thanks a million for the business. Please tell a friend about our products and keep us in mind if you need gifts for any occasion. With every order, you'll receive personally autographed swag.
Going to pay my respects this week to the King's Mom who I thought the world of and who passed away Sunday at 90. If the Good Lord would give me 90 years above ground, I think I would take it in a heart beat.
Thanks for reading our blog and following us on Twitter @JRsBBQ. Keep those orders coming. Sending out a big order to Steve Austin on Tuesday.....actually to his Lab Hershey...it's a long story.
Boomer Sooner!
J.R.
Monday, 7 February 2011
Jim Ross New Blog
Steve Austin is very excited about hosting the new season of Tough Enough. It will be interesting to see how much star power and expertise is put in place when the training staff is announced. My instincts say that Austin will have a strong team to help him with the trainees. This will be a great opportunity for Stone Cold to be Stone Cold and to re-engage his many fans on a weekly TV series of which I have great expectations for and will be watching and DVR'ing every week. I do not know the status of Tough Enough airing outside the USA for those that are asking.
Talked to Jesse White, Big Van Vader's son, recently and he is working hard to earn a look from WWE sometime in the future. Jesse is around 6'1" or so and around 240 pounds and was an outstanding high school football player who has a degree from Oklahoma University. Making it today in the wrestling biz isn't easy and I hope that Jesse is able to facilitate his dream of having a successful career in the squared circle if that's what he truly wants to do.
Recruiting college educated, athletic, charismatic young people to try their hand at sports entertainment is the best route to take in my opinion. Some will make it and most won't but by recruiting these types of individuals one increases their chances of success.
Best wishes go out to former wrestling manager Sir Oliver Humperdink who is apparently battling kidney cancer. Hump was a great mouthpiece in the 70's-80's and we got to know each other way back in the day. Hump's team of the original Hollywood Blondes of Jerry Brown and Buddy Roberts was one of the most underrated tag teams I ever saw. Great wrestling villains with a manager that could tell their story and be a factor at ringside. God Bless Hump and keep him in your prayers.
Hopefully Hump will be feeling well enough to join us at the CAC function in Vegas in April. For more info on the wonderful organization, the Cauliflower Alley Club, check out www.caulifloweralleyclub.org.
How egocentric and ill guided is NFL star defensive lineman Albert Haynesworth who recently had a alleged physical altercation with a fellow motorist? Haynesworth seemingly needs professional help in making better decisions or he's going to end up being the moral of a sad story.
Emailer asked why 'surprises' in pro wrestling are so rare these days. My take is that it's the information age and people do a great deal of talking/texting/emailing notwithstanding that many shows are taped in advance of airings which releases a fair amount of info on which folks run with and report. As a fan, I don't have such a thirst for the 'dirt' and enjoy being surprised. 'Spoilers' are what they are but I generally refrain from reading them so that I can draw my own conclusions to a wrestling, TV show and not be pre-conditioned by what others decree.
Twitter follower @JRsBBQ wanted to know if Dusty Rhodes is interested in getting back into announcing wrestling bouts. I don't know that answer but I know that 'Dream' is a valuable asset in WWE's developmental system and enjoys working with the young talent and not traveling as extensively as he once was required to do. The last three hours of FCW TV that I saw produced in Tampa were excellent.
Speaking of developing young wrestlers, there is absolutely no more important facet of any wrestling organization than the development of young athletic, charismatic performers. The future of the biz depends on the stars of tomorrow. No one has the ability to wave the proverbial magic wand and create a star. It takes time, 3-5 years as a rule, for a competitor to develop their game to the level that one can actually see what their true potential is going to be and how they are going to fare with travel, enduring physical and mental challenges, and what kind of 'team player' they are.
Are there exceptions to the '3-5 year rule?' Obviously, but that's an arguable time line for most.
Emailer...Who invented the 'Coal Miner's Glove Match?' I have no idea. Does any one know the answer to this one? BTW this isn't referring to the voice of WWE Michael Cole's favorite bout.
Chris Jericho's latest book is getting excellent reviews by many that have read it. I'm due to get a copy soon and look forward to reading it. Chris' first book was a compelling read and sets the bar high as it relates to his literary efforts.
The Sting stories that have been on line regarding him coming to WWE have taken a life of their own. Will Sting ever come to WWE? Does a 51 year old guy want to engage in an ambitious, road schedule or any schedule? Could a deal be done and all the pieces be put in place before WM27? Is Sting even remotely interested in re-entering the squared circle on any level? I don't know the answers to these questions nor, would I suggest, does anyone but Sting himself. Agreed, any thing is possible but what is feasible, doable, etc are questions that none of us can answer. I have seen Sting once in approximately 15 years and that was for about 5 minutes in Charlotte last year at the annual fan convention. I do know that he is a great human being after being around him for over two decades beginning when he came to work for Bill Watts as one half of the Bladerunner tag team with Warrior. They were known as Sting and Rock as I recall when they began their careers with the large Cowboy. Some of my best memories of calling wrestling
Talked to Jesse White, Big Van Vader's son, recently and he is working hard to earn a look from WWE sometime in the future. Jesse is around 6'1" or so and around 240 pounds and was an outstanding high school football player who has a degree from Oklahoma University. Making it today in the wrestling biz isn't easy and I hope that Jesse is able to facilitate his dream of having a successful career in the squared circle if that's what he truly wants to do.
Recruiting college educated, athletic, charismatic young people to try their hand at sports entertainment is the best route to take in my opinion. Some will make it and most won't but by recruiting these types of individuals one increases their chances of success.
Best wishes go out to former wrestling manager Sir Oliver Humperdink who is apparently battling kidney cancer. Hump was a great mouthpiece in the 70's-80's and we got to know each other way back in the day. Hump's team of the original Hollywood Blondes of Jerry Brown and Buddy Roberts was one of the most underrated tag teams I ever saw. Great wrestling villains with a manager that could tell their story and be a factor at ringside. God Bless Hump and keep him in your prayers.
Hopefully Hump will be feeling well enough to join us at the CAC function in Vegas in April. For more info on the wonderful organization, the Cauliflower Alley Club, check out www.caulifloweralleyclub.org.
How egocentric and ill guided is NFL star defensive lineman Albert Haynesworth who recently had a alleged physical altercation with a fellow motorist? Haynesworth seemingly needs professional help in making better decisions or he's going to end up being the moral of a sad story.
Emailer asked why 'surprises' in pro wrestling are so rare these days. My take is that it's the information age and people do a great deal of talking/texting/emailing notwithstanding that many shows are taped in advance of airings which releases a fair amount of info on which folks run with and report. As a fan, I don't have such a thirst for the 'dirt' and enjoy being surprised. 'Spoilers' are what they are but I generally refrain from reading them so that I can draw my own conclusions to a wrestling, TV show and not be pre-conditioned by what others decree.
Twitter follower @JRsBBQ wanted to know if Dusty Rhodes is interested in getting back into announcing wrestling bouts. I don't know that answer but I know that 'Dream' is a valuable asset in WWE's developmental system and enjoys working with the young talent and not traveling as extensively as he once was required to do. The last three hours of FCW TV that I saw produced in Tampa were excellent.
Speaking of developing young wrestlers, there is absolutely no more important facet of any wrestling organization than the development of young athletic, charismatic performers. The future of the biz depends on the stars of tomorrow. No one has the ability to wave the proverbial magic wand and create a star. It takes time, 3-5 years as a rule, for a competitor to develop their game to the level that one can actually see what their true potential is going to be and how they are going to fare with travel, enduring physical and mental challenges, and what kind of 'team player' they are.
Are there exceptions to the '3-5 year rule?' Obviously, but that's an arguable time line for most.
Emailer...Who invented the 'Coal Miner's Glove Match?' I have no idea. Does any one know the answer to this one? BTW this isn't referring to the voice of WWE Michael Cole's favorite bout.
Chris Jericho's latest book is getting excellent reviews by many that have read it. I'm due to get a copy soon and look forward to reading it. Chris' first book was a compelling read and sets the bar high as it relates to his literary efforts.
The Sting stories that have been on line regarding him coming to WWE have taken a life of their own. Will Sting ever come to WWE? Does a 51 year old guy want to engage in an ambitious, road schedule or any schedule? Could a deal be done and all the pieces be put in place before WM27? Is Sting even remotely interested in re-entering the squared circle on any level? I don't know the answers to these questions nor, would I suggest, does anyone but Sting himself. Agreed, any thing is possible but what is feasible, doable, etc are questions that none of us can answer. I have seen Sting once in approximately 15 years and that was for about 5 minutes in Charlotte last year at the annual fan convention. I do know that he is a great human being after being around him for over two decades beginning when he came to work for Bill Watts as one half of the Bladerunner tag team with Warrior. They were known as Sting and Rock as I recall when they began their careers with the large Cowboy. Some of my best memories of calling wrestling
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