Jim Ross Talks TNA Stars in WWE, “Smackdown” Announce Team, Brock Lesnar

WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross took to the “Q&A” section of his website this past week. While a lot of the questions focus around fans pitching ideas he normally shoots down (within reason), some received genuine response from the former executive vice president of talent relations in WWE.

Below are some of the highlights.

One question revolved around the concept of bringing in TNA-associated names such as AJ Styles, Bobby Roode, James Storm and Samoa Joe:

“I’ve mentioned this on my podcast before as well. It’s a sound idea. Rookies cannot learn by working with people with the same or less skill set than them. Plus the men mentioned just might get over because they are all talented.” 

Another noted the linearity of the WWE broadcast teams, including “Smackdown” having its own share of Michael Cole and JBL. It was suggested the show adapt to a younger team consisting of Tom Phillips, Byron Saxton and Renee Young. In response, he said:

“I’ve suggested many times on my podcast that WWE should have two different announce teams so that no one gets overexposed and that the shows can have some exclusive identity. I can see Tom Phillips, Byron Saxton and Renee Young handling Smackdown sooner than later.”

Another fan asked what Ross felt the impact of having WWE World Heavyweight Champion Brock Lesnar off television for several months was. Ross offered no opinion, but gave potential reasoning:

“Keeping Lesnar off TV until January isn’t ideal and how it affects the WWE Title and it’s perception remains to be seen. I assume it is a financial decision but I have no way of knowing.”

More questions and answers can be read here.

Editor’s Note

“Smackdown” is in desperate need of an identity, and that team would certainly help give it that. I’m all for it.

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