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WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross will be the play-by-play voice on All Elite Wrestling’s first pay-per-view (PPV) on Sat., May 25. In addition to that role, Ross carries the title of Senior Advisor for the new company. Considering his history heading up talent relations for Vince McMahon, it’s not a big jump to think some of the advising he’ll be doing for Tony Khan will involve suggestions on who AEW should sign.
In the run-up to Double or Nothing in Las Vegas tonight, JR’s spoken openly about a couple folks he’d like to see join All Elite.
One of those is a name many fans are hoping shows up at MGM Garden Arena later today. In an interview with ESPN 1530’s No Holds Barred (transcription via Fightful), Ross seemed to indicate the former Dean Ambrose is in AEW’s plans:
“I think it could happen for sure, and I think he’s a high priority for any company. Whether it be AEW, or WWE retaining him, or him going ROH or anywhere else. Jon’s a very talented kid. Where ever he’s going to go, he’s going to be a big player. Jon Moxley is a pro wrestling star, no matter the jersey that he’s wearing. I just hope somewhere down the road. If all the cards fall where they should, I’ll be calling his matches as well.”
Another name who probably isn’t as high on some folks wishlist - and who’s currently under contract to WWE - came up at a Starrcast II panel on Friday (May 24). PWInsider reports that while he and his long-time broadcast partner Jerry Lawler were answering questions, Ross remarked that King’s contract is up soon, and that he plans to recruit him to Team AEW.
Both are big names who would grab headlines. In Lawler’s case, his is a name which will also draw heat with some fans. Are either people AEW should be focused on at this point, or would they be better served forging their own identity and working to make their own people household names?