If there’s one person who knows a thing or two about professional wrestling, it is Jim Ross. He has been in the business since 1974 and held multiple high-ranking positions in WWE, WCW and AEW.
Throughout his tenure, he has seen the good, the bad and the ugly side of wrestling, which is one of the reasons his podcast Grilling JR is so entertaining.
On the most recent episode, the topic of conversation was the ECW legend and WWE Hall of Famer, Rob Van Dam. During his time in WWE RVD was one of the most popular Superstars on the roster.
His look, attitude, high-flying antics and innovative offence made him a standout performer. He is a former ECW Champion, six-time Intercontinental Champion, four-time Hardcore Champion, three-time Tag Team Champion and WWE Heavyweight Champion. However, despite accomplishing many great things in the promotion, he is not regarded as one of the greats.
Jim Ross Revealed Why Drug Use May Have Hurt RVD’s Legacy
Speaking on his podcast, the legendary commentator revealed that he believes RVD’s penchant for pot could be the reason he is not revered as much as he should be.
It’s unfortunate. I’m not sure I have the right answer. I would say the marijuana thing has had something to do with it. It never, it never affected my opinion of Rob. That’s unfortunately, instead of being known for his high flying, his five star frogs splashes, and Vandaminators and all those things that we really like and love.
He, you know, he’s just, he just was so, so different. And that’s the thing about talents today, they have to figure out how can I be different [and] still be effective? And he figured it out. So I was very privileged to have him on our roster. I think he was a great asset to the team. And I don’t know Conrad, do you ever remember him having a real bad match?
RVD famously had to drop the Heavyweight Championship after he was arrested for possession of marijuana after being pulled over for a traffic violation. Not only did he lose the title, but was also given a 30-day suspension. He returned after his suspension was over, but he never came close to capturing the title ever again.
If you use any quotes from this article please link back to the original source with a h/t to Inside the Ropes.