Jim Ross would love to see a former WWE Superstar become All Elite.
When several WWE Superstars were released from their contracts in September 2023, many were disappointed to see Shelton Benjamin’s name on the list. Debuting in the Ruthless Aggression Era and still able to perform at a high level in the modern era, Benjamin is another athletically gifted wrestler who could have reached a higher level in the industry.
As has been the case with many high-profile releases, there has been speculation as to whether or not the former Tag Team Champion will join AEW in the near future, something which Shelton Benjamin has recently addressed. If this were to happen, Ross believes it would be a great investment.
Speaking on the Grilling JR podcast, Ross was asked how he would utilise Benjamin in AEW, stating that he was the most athletic out of the famous OVW class of 2002:
“You get him a single run with somebody who could actually really wrestle and let him show his skills. Then, you find a partner for him and let Shelton’s experience help build a foundation for a tag team. I’m a big fan of Shelton Benjamin. When we recruited Cena [John Cena], Brock [Brock Lesnar], Orton [Randy Orton], and Batista, the best athlete of that group was Shelton.”
Ross continued, noting the former Intercontinental Champion’s biggest drawback before stating that any promotion would benefit from having Benjamin on their roster:
“Shelton’s issue was personality, connecting with the audience. I love Shelton. A company guy, a team player, he came from a team environment, which is always important to me. I’m a big fan of his work and him as a man. He would help any locker room. I can just imagine what kind of mentor he would be to some of the kids, not just his color, not African-American only, but young talent. Shelton’s journey has been well documented and I’m proud I got to hire him. He’s a credit to the wrestling business, no question.”
Jim Ross Addresses Broadcast Future
Returning at Revolution to announce Sting’s final match alongside Tony Schiavone, Ross recently confirmed that he signed a new contract with the promotion. With Ross calling the biggest moments in professional wrestling for 50 years, few would blame the Hall of Famer for calling time on his legendary career. During the same show, Jim Ross addressed his long-term future in broadcasting.
H/t to Fightful.