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Jim Ross gives update on potential AEW return date

Posted: Jul 23rd 2026 By: Joseph Currier

Jim Ross is optimistic that he’ll be back on AEW commentary sooner rather than later.

On the episode of his Grilling JR podcast that will be publicly released tomorrow, Ross noted that — despite having brain surgery coming up in August — he’s hoping to make the trip to the United Kingdom for AEW All In 2026 at the end of that month. He is not able to make it to AEW’s Redemption pay-per-view in Montreal this weekend but has an appearance coming up at WrestleCon in Minneapolis on July 31-August 1, where Ross and his old broadcast partner Jerry “The King” Lawler will both be present.

Grilling JR co-host Conrad Thompson asked Ross about his status for September’s All Out PPV, and Ross said he’s hoping to make it back sooner than that.

“I hope so. I’d love to do that,” the announcing legend said. “I have my sights set on the UK and Wembley. You know, that’s a big event and it’s a good trip. It’s a non-stop flight. I enjoy that opportunity, so that’s kind of where I’m setting my sights. I got that big two-day appearance coming in Minneapolis soon. That’s going to be fun.”

Ross’ AEW contract is set to expire in August. There’s been no word on an extension, but Ross said on Grilling JR that Tony Khan has been great to him, especially amid his health issues. Ross’ role in AEW is to help out with commentary at PPVs.

Jim Ross set for brain surgery —

Memory issues and falls have been an issue for Ross lately, and he hopes his upcoming brain surgery will help with those issues. He spent more than a month in the hospital earlier this summer but is now back at home awaiting surgery. Ross said his daughter is taking great care of him during this process. Surgery will be happening in a few weeks.

Going to events like WrestleCon is something the 74-year-old Ross greatly enjoys, and he believes they have a positive impact on his overall health.

“I’m very respectful of my health and my time,” he said. “And I’m excited to be part of all these type of events. I’m no spring chicken, Conrad. I don’t know how many more of these I got in me, but as long as I can do it and represent, I’m going to do it. Because it’s fun to do. These appearances are fun to do. They make me feel better, and psychologically it’s a win-win.”