AEW Commentator Jim Ross Announces Colon Cancer Diagnosis: ‘I Appreciate Your Concern and Support’

Legendary wrestling broadcaster Jim Ross announced on Thursday that he has been diagnosed with colon cancer.

On his official Twitter account, Ross wrote “Diagnosed this week with colon cancer. Surgery being scheduled in the next week or two. I appreciate your concern and support.”

This is not Ross’ first bout with cancer. He previously revealed in October 2021 that he had been diagnosed with skin cancer, but declared he was cancer free in December of that year after undergoing treatment. Ross then stated in February 2024 that he had undergone “cancer surgery” on his right hip.

Ross is one of the most well-known pro wrestling commentators of all time. He began his career in the pro wrestling world in the 1970s, working his way up to being lead play-by-play announcer for Mid-South Wrestling before going on to work for promotions like the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) and World Championship Wrestling (WCW). Ross has also held various behind the scenes roles during his career.

He is best known for his time in the WWE (or WWF when he originally joined), where he was the cornerstone of many commentary teams. Most famously, Ross worked alongside Jerry “The King” Lawler and was an instrumental part of the so-called Attitude Era in the company’s history, which was marked by the rise of stars like “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, and The Undertaker. Ross was also executive vice president of talent relations for much of his WWE tenure.

He was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2007.

Ross began working for upstart promotion All Elite Wrestling (AEW) with the company’s launch in 2019 and has been with them ever since. He also currently hosts the podcast “Grilling JR” with Conrad Thompson.