Jim Ross has explained why he does not support the idea of unionising professional wrestling, arguing that it would not ultimately benefit the industry.
Unlike many performance-based professions, wrestling has never operated under a formal union structure, and past attempts to organise one have failed. The most notable effort came in the 1980s, when Jesse Ventura attempted to form a union in the WWE, only for the plan to collapse after Hulk Hogan informed Vince McMahon.
Speaking on a recent episode of his Grilling JR podcast, Jim Ross was asked directly whether he believed wrestling should have a union and gave a firm answer.
“No, I’m not for it,” Ross said. “I asked Cowboy Bill Watts about this one time. One of the smartest guys I ever worked with… It’s a big puzzle. And all the pieces got to fit.”
Ross acknowledged that referencing Bill Watts often draws criticism because of Watts’ controversial past, particularly regarding race. He said he has frequently been accused of sharing those views simply because of their professional relationship.
“Which will drag in the racial issues. I get that a lot, too,” Ross said. “‘Well, JR must be a racist ’cause he worked for Bill Watts.’ That’s just so weak. That’s a weak defence, your honour.”
The WWE Hall of Famer also addressed the topic of royalty payments to former wrestlers, which has resurfaced in recent weeks following public disclosures from several ex-performers. Ross conceded that the current system appears to favour the company rather than the talent, but he still stopped short of supporting unionisation as the solution.
“It sounds like somebody’s trying to take care of the house and not necessarily take care of the talent,” Ross said.
Despite acknowledging flaws in how wrestlers are compensated, Ross maintained that he does not believe a union would resolve those issues, reinforcing his long-held stance against organised labour in professional wrestling.
What Did Jim Ross Say About Tommaso Ciampa Leaving WWE?
Jim Ross believes Tommaso Ciampa is likely to end up in AEW after announcing his impending departure from WWE. Speaking on Grilling JR, Ross said Ciampa is “somebody you wouldn’t pass on” due to his in-ring ability and name recognition, adding that his instinct is Ciampa will join AEW sooner rather than later.
Ciampa recently confirmed he plans to keep wrestling and has filed new trademarks ahead of his exit from WWE.
