Ross’ new deal was first reported by Mister Saint Laurent and Kevin Sullivan of MLW on their podcast, but it was only finalized this past Tuesday. As noted, the contract is only with AXS, not New Japan Pro Wrestling.
Read More: The Latest On Jim Ross’ Deal With NJPW & AXS TV
It was said that Ross was the leading candidate to replace Mauro Ranallo on the show, and maybe the only one once Ranallo informed AXS of his new job as lead Smackdown announcer in WWE. NJPW was not part of any of the negotiations, and although some might think this was a way for NJPW to regain something from WWE for signing their talent, it was not the case at all, and talks began well before New Japan had any idea anyone was on the way out of the company.
It was said Ross had shown interest in calling other sports for AXS, and maybe even taping one of his spoken word live shows as a network broadcast special.
This will be Ross’ first full-time commentary job on national television in more than six years, since he last worked for WWE on Smackdown.
– Ross recently spoke with Wrestlezone Radio about his new deal with AXS, which you can listen to in the player below!
