Jim Cornette Blasts John Laurinaitis Wrestling Return

Jim Cornette has criticised the decision to book former WWE executive John Laurinaitis for an upcoming wrestling appearance.

During a recent episode of Jim Cornette’s Drive-Thru, Cornette and co-host Brian Last discussed news that John Laurinaitis is scheduled to appear for World Classic Professional Big Time Wrestling, marking his first wrestling-related appearance since leaving WWE.

The discussion centred on comments Laurinaitis made in a recent interview with Two Man Power Trip of Wrestling, in which he discussed his past role in WWE and the possibility of working with the promotion in a developmental capacity.

In the interview, Laurinaitis claimed he “ran the WWE developmental system for 20 years,” a statement Cornette disputed. Cornette noted that Laurinaitis did not take over the position until 2004, following Jim Ross.

“Twenty years?” Cornette said. “He didn’t take over for Jim Ross until 2004, and he’s had numerous interruptions since then.”

Cornette also criticised Laurinaitis’ use of the word “grooming” while discussing his interest in helping develop younger wrestlers. Laurinaitis had said his “one love” in wrestling was helping develop and “groom” young talent, something he suggested could also be part of his role with the promotion.

Cornette questioned the choice of wording given Laurinaitis’ public history and the way the term is now widely interpreted. He also expressed doubt about Laurinaitis’ potential role with the promotion, arguing that the organisation does not have the infrastructure required for a developmental system.

“They’re not going to have him running developmental because they don’t have one,” Cornette said, also noting the company does not operate a wrestling school.

What Did Jim Cornette’s Podcast Co-Host, Brian Last, Say About John Laurinaitis?

Brian Last was even more critical of Laurinaitis, referring to him as “Defendant C,” a reference to legal matters connected to Laurinaitis’ time in WWE. Last also questioned Laurinaitis’ track record in identifying talent and criticised the decision to heavily promote his appearance.

While Last said he personally respects promoter Bobby Fulton, he suggested booking Laurinaitis was a mistake. He noted that a previous attempt to book Laurinaitis at an event was reportedly cancelled following backlash, and argued there is little demand among fans for his return to the wrestling scene.