Jim Ross disputes wrestling booking claims and clarifies AEW contract

Jim Ross has disputed claims made by Bret Hart regarding the necessity of in-ring experience for wrestling promoters. Responding to Hart’s criticism of WWE for using non-wrestlers to instruct talent, Ross argued that successful booking relies on product knowledge and understanding the genre rather than professional wrestling experience. Ross cited legendary promoter Sam Muchnick as an example of a successful figure who never competed in the ring.

Separately, details regarding Ross’s contract with All Elite Wrestling (AEW) indicate that his recent arrangement was designed as a special-attraction role. Rather than a full-time weekly television schedule, the deal focused on pay-per-views and significant matches. This setup allowed Ross to participate in major moments while managing various health issues and pursuing his goal of reaching a 50-year career milestone.