Jim Ross, a WWE Hall of Famer, has been a staple in the wrestling industry since the 1980s. Despite his extensive career, he has never lent his voice to TNA, a Nashville-based promotion. However, a recent revelation by Vince Russo, a former writer for TNA, suggests that JR was once extremely close to signing with the company, which would have had a significant impact on TNA’s fortunes.
According to Russo, he was able to get JR “this close” to joining TNA, and if JR had joined the company, it would have been a completely different entity. Russo’s statement implies that JR’s involvement would have been a game-changer for TNA, suggesting that the promotion was on the cusp of major success.
Russo’s claim is intriguing, as JR has had a long and storied career in the wrestling industry. He worked with Russo in WWE before leaving for WCW in 1999, and Russo later joined TNA in 2002. JR, on the other hand, stayed with WWE from 1993 to 2013, serving as the Head of Talent Relations during the Attitude Era. He became a prominent figure in the company, known for his iconic voice and charisma behind the microphone.
The fact that JR was close to joining TNA is surprising, given his long-standing relationship with WWE. However, Russo’s revelations suggest that JR was open to exploring new opportunities. It is possible that JR’s involvement with TNA could have marked a turning point for the promotion, potentially leading to increased success and recognition.
JR’s career has been marked by several significant milestones. After leaving WWE in 2013, he joined New Japan Pro-Wrestling as its chief English broadcaster before signing with All Elite Wrestling (AEW) in 2019. Despite his contributions to WWE, JR’s decision to explore new opportunities reflects his commitment to the wrestling industry and his desire to stay relevant.
Russo’s revelation highlights the complexities of the wrestling industry, where allegiances and rivalries can be fleeting. The fact that JR was once close to joining TNA suggests that the promotion was a viable alternative to WWE, and that JR was willing to take a chance on a new venture.
