What Happened to Jim Ross? WWE Legend to Undergo Brain Surgery on August 12

Jim Ross, one of the most iconic voices in professional wrestling, is preparing for brain surgery as he continues to deal with ongoing health challenges. The WWE Hall of Famer recently confirmed that he will have a shunt inserted on August 12.

Ross revealed the update during a recent episode of his “Grilling with JR” podcast. He said doctors have informed him that he will likely need to remain in the hospital for only one day following the procedure.

Jim Ross remains hopeful about returning to AEW

Despite the upcoming surgery, Ross remains optimistic about his future in professional wrestling. The veteran announcer currently works with All Elite Wrestling, although his contract with the promotion is reportedly set to expire this month.

Ross has expressed a desire to attend AEW’s All In event at Wembley Stadium in London on August 30. However, he acknowledged that his health situation could mean he has already called his final match.

Ross said he hopes to have a proper and planned conclusion to his wrestling career rather than simply disappearing from television.

“I hope that my ending, my career ending, is planned. And so I don’t just show up one Wednesday night on ‘Dynamite’ and say, ‘Well, I got some news for you folks, I’m done.’”

He added that having a clear ending would be important for his mental well-being and would allow him to leave the industry on his own terms.

Jim Ross opens up about upcoming brain surgery

Ross admitted that he has never undergone brain surgery before but said he is ready to get the procedure completed.

“I don’t want to say I’m looking forward to it, but I guess I really am to get to that point and to get it over with.”

Explaining the procedure, Ross said doctors will insert a shunt into his brain.

“I have never had brain surgery before. So they’re going to put a — what do they call it? A shunt? So, I’m getting a shunt put in my brain.”

Ross recently spent more than 30 days in hospital

The surgery announcement comes shortly after Ross revealed that he had spent more than 30 days in the hospital. He later shared an update on social media celebrating his return home.

His prolonged hospital stay has added to concerns surrounding the health of the legendary wrestling commentator, who has dealt with several serious medical issues throughout his life.

Jim Ross’ long wrestling career

Jim Ross was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2007 after establishing himself as one of the most recognizable commentators in professional wrestling history.

In 2019, Ross joined AEW as a lead commentator and senior advisor, becoming one of the most prominent names associated with the promotion during its early years.

Over the course of his career, Ross has faced several health challenges. He was diagnosed with Bell’s palsy in 1994, later battled skin cancer in 2021 and was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2022.

In January, Ross also suffered a serious fall that left him lying on his living room floor for approximately five hours.

What is next for Jim Ross?

Ross has taken on a less prominent role with AEW in recent years because of his health issues. His upcoming brain surgery represents another significant challenge for the legendary broadcaster.

For now, Ross is focused on undergoing the procedure and recovering. He remains hopeful that he can attend AEW All In at Wembley Stadium and, if his health permits, enjoy a proper farewell to the wrestling career that made him one of the industry’s most respected voices.