Jim Ross believes WWE decision-makers could look to Vince McMahon for creative input if the company were to face challenges.
The discussion follows a moment during the 2026 WWE Hall of Fame ceremony, where Stephanie McMahon was inducted, and fans in Las Vegas chanted “Thank you, Vince,” acknowledging Vince McMahon’s long-standing influence on the industry.
Speaking on his Grilling JR podcast, Jim Ross reflected on McMahon’s impact and suggested his presence still looms large over WWE.
“No matter what his other issues may or may not be, all that stuff, it’s still Vince,” Ross said. “If anybody has worked in WWE, they know full well it’s all about Vince, and it will remain that way until they bury him.”
Ross described McMahon as an “awesome influence” and indicated he would not be surprised if McMahon returned in some capacity.
“I think through the haze that Vince McMahon will rise again to some level,” he added. “I can’t see this much talk about speculation about Vince for there not to be something there.”
During the discussion, it was also noted that Triple H previously indicated McMahon had input on creative decisions at WrestleMania 39, highlighting the continued influence he has had behind the scenes.
Ross went on to suggest that WWE’s leadership would consider using McMahon’s ideas if it benefited the company’s position.
“They would not be good businessmen if they weren’t willing to entertain that idea,” Ross said. “They realise McMahon’s a guy that built the whole thing. I think they would be remiss if the decision makers would not use Vince.”
Jim Ross Believes WWE’s Management Is “Too Smart” Not To Use Vince McMahon’s Creative Abilities
Jim Ross concluded by stating he believes those in charge are “too smart not to utilise Vince McMahon” if the situation called for it, pointing to McMahon’s role in shaping modern professional wrestling.
