Jim Ross Officially Becoming the Lead Announcer For New Japan Pro Wrestling

It’s official! The rumors have been going around for weeks, but now several sources are reporting that WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross, who many consider as the greatest pro wrestling announcers of all time, has officially signed with AXS TV to replace Mauro Ranallo as the lead announcer for the New Japan Pro Wrestling TV series.

JR made the following statement after the news broke with FOX Sports:

“I’m a big fan of the New Japan product as they have been one if the most highly regarded brands within the genre for decades,” Ross told FOX Sports. “New Japan has a unique opportunity with AXS TV to grow their brand in North America. The more fans sample the athleticism, physicality, no-nonsense presentation of NJPW the more they’re going to like it.

For me, the New Japan Pro Wrestling business philosophy reminds me of my earlier years in wrestling. I’ve had numerous other offers, some serious and others just flirting to return to TV Wrestling broadcasting but none have had the appeal that AXS TV offered me. We think my style will fit the NJPW in-ring presentation well. We’ll know that conclusively in early March. Plus, AXS TV and I discussed other potential projects outside NJPW.”