Jim Ross Successfully Undergoes Brain Surgery

Pro wrestling world, go ahead and exhale. Jim Ross successfully underwent brain surgery on Wednesday and is currently recovering.

Ross received what's called a shunt procedure. The shunt procedure involves drilling a small hole into the brain in order to drain fluid. The hope was that the fluid removal would lead to better memory and balance. Both were issues that Ross has been dealing with in recent months.

Conrad Thompson, Ross's podcast co-host, took to social media on Wednesday to deliver the good news to pro wrestling fans.

"Happy to report that our pal, Jim Ross, had a successful procedure this morning," Thompson wrote. Heard from his lovely daughter this morning that everything went well and good ole JR is expected to be back home by Friday! Please keep JR in your prayers as we hope for a speedy recovery!"

Happy to report that our pal @JRsBBQ had a successful procedure this morning!

I heard from his lovely daughter this morning that everything went well and good ole JR is expected to be back home by Friday! 🤠

Please keep JR in your prayers as we hope for a speedy recovery! pic.twitter.com/I4ISoxdc9o
— Conrad the Mortgage Guy (@HeyHeyItsConrad) August 12, 2026

Over the last few years, Ross has dealt with a variety of health problems. In 2025, he was diagnosed with colon cancer. Later that year, Ross revealed he was cancer-free. This scare came after Ross had battled skin cancer. Ross made his return to AEW at last year's All In event inside Globe Life Field in Texas.

Health issues have paused Jim Ross' run in AEW

Ross helped launch AEW and was the voice of the very first episodes of AEW Dynamite on TNT. Over the years, and because of health issues, Ross has transitioned into more of a part-time and special-attraction role with the company.

Ross has had a historic career in the pro wrestling industry. He was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame because of his announcing resume, and he served as the head of talent relations during WWE's infamous Attitude Era, where he was responsible for the biggest stars of the time, including Steve Austin, The Rock, and many others.

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Prior to his run with WWE, Ross was an announcer for WCW, NWA, and other pro wrestling promotions around the world. He was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2007 by Austin.

In a post to fans regarding his brain surgery, Ross told fans he appreciated their support.

“Thanks for the outpouring of support regarding my upcoming brain surgery. A hole will be drilled in my skull and a small tube will be inserted into my stomach to better manage and drain excess brain fluid. I’m optimistic. Thanks to all.”

Thanks for the outpouring of support regarding my upcoming brain surgery.

A hole will be drilled in my skull and a small tube will be inserted reachinto my stomach to better manage/drain excess brain fluid.

I’m optimistic. Thanks to all. 🤠
— Jim Ross (@JRsBBQ) August 11, 2026

Ross is currently still employed by AEW. It's believed that his contract with Tony Khan and the company ends at some point this year.

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