Jim Ross gave his thoughts on JBL’s return to professional wrestling.
In recent months, John Bradshaw Layfield has been making surprise appearances in multiple promotions, from TNA to GCW. JBL recently explained his reasons for returning to wrestling, saying he didn’t want his time with Baron Corbin in WWE to be his final impression on fans.
Speaking on the latest edition of Grilling JR, fellow WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross speculated about Layfield’s reasons for returning, saying he believes the Texan doesn’t need the extra money but is bored of sitting at home and loves the world of wrestling.
“Boredom. I think it’s boredom. He loves the wrestling business and he’s bored of sitting on the sideline. He believes that he can be relevant again, he believes he can continue to develop his in-ring persona and I love the surprise aspects of not knowing where he’s going to show up. I know it’s counter productive because we’re trying to sell tickets.
This is something that he loves to do. Why not, all he’s doing is a clothesline. That’s what people come to see and that clothesline, it’s easy for a green indie guy or an overweight indie guy or whatever to take. It hurts, but you’ve got to have a special skill to get clotheslined. John’s really good at it, he’s got good psychology so I’m happy that he’s doing well.
Like you said, he doesn’t need the money, he’s made a lot of money, he’s been investing well over the years. He’s very bright in that area. I’d like to, you know, he makes a surprise appearance for AEW somewhere down the road, doesn’t bother me. It might be a cool idea depending on who he’s going to pair up with. We’ve got lots of guys that can take clotheslines.”
“Memorable Moments Are What We Look For” – Jim Ross On Potential JBL Appearance In AEW
Continuing, Jim Ross made it clear that he believes JBL could create a memorable moment in AEW.
“No, not at all, I think it’s a good idea. It adds to the presentation, it gives you a memorable moment in the ring in front of all the fans. Memorable moments are what we look for. You’re not going to remember every head and wrist lock during the show, they’re important to the process, no doubt. However, this adds a new element.
As we’ve said on the show many times, I think surprises are very special and our fans love surprises. John showing up and doing his thing [would be] a surprise, and a fitting surprise. I’m not saying he should be full-time, because I don’t know if he wants to be full-time, but I do think on a special occasion, him making an appearance would be talked about.”
JBL recently compared one surprising WWE star to the late Macho Man Randy Savage.
h/t Fightful