AEW commentator Jim Ross is preparing for colon cancer surgery, which is scheduled for 6 a.m. on Tuesday, May 27. Ross shared details on a recent episode of the Grilling JR podcast, confirming the cancer is located in two places. He initially announced his diagnosis via social media on Thursday, May 15, stating surgery would occur in the “next week or two.”
Getting ready for surgery, and that’s always stressful but I’ve prepared myself mentally and physically to endure the situation.
Doctors anticipate a six-day hospital stay for Ross following the procedure. The commentator mentioned his intention to adjust his pace during recovery.
I’m thinking I’ll really slow down after the surgery. I’ll talk to the doctor, and see what he says. I’ll try to really slow down when this is over. Make a few autograph appearances, which I love to do, and see what Tony Khan’s got ready for me in AEW.
Despite the upcoming medical intervention, Jim Ross expressed a strong desire to continue his work with AEW. He conveyed a belief in his capacity to maintain his previous schedule within the company.
I could still do my schedule I had, but I don’t know if anybody else believes that. I believe it. I still would love to do the pay-per-views in AEW, but I don’t know if Tony will want me on, I don’t know.
Following his diagnosis, Jim Ross received supportive phone calls, notably from Steve Austin and AEW President Tony Khan. Reflecting on his conversation with Austin, Ross shared:
I was at home and I got a call from Steve Austin. And when we got off the phone, I looked at my phone and we talked for 43 minutes. 43 minutes. And here’s what your friends do. They call you, they talk to you, and at the end of the conversation, they tell you they love you. That’s what Steve did. So that’s what I got. And that cheered me up. And it made me feel strong and vibrant.
Tony Khan called me, which was nice. You know, the Khan family has done an amazing job of taking care of JR since I signed with their company. He’s very talent friendly. Maybe too friendly at times.
Addressing speculation about his future, Jim Ross clarified he has no immediate plans to retire from his broadcasting career. He voiced his hope to be present for AEW All In Texas on Saturday, July 12.
I don’t plan on retiring, I plan on getting healthy and getting well and doing something for somebody and we’ll see how that works out.
READ MORE: Details Revealed About Adam Copeland’s Upcoming Plans in AEW
