When was Jim Ross diagnosed with skin cancer? Health struggles explored as WWE legend reveals colon cancer diagnosis

Jim Ross, longtime wrestling commentator and WWE Hall of Famer, has battled his share of health scares over the years. On May 15, 2025, Ross announced in X that he had been diagnosed with colon cancer at the age of 73.

The announcement is the latest chapter in his long battle with cancer after being treated for skin cancer in recent years. Ross also revealed that he is set to have surgery in the coming weeks and has been overwhelmed by the support he has received.

"Surgery being scheduled in the next week or two. I appreciate your concern and support." He wrote on his post.

This is not Ross’s first encounter with cancer. In October 2021, he publicly talked about having skin cancer. According to Sports Illustrated, the diagnosis came after he underwent a CT scan for the continued problem on his lower leg that he said he had been dealing with for more than a year.

Even after being diagnosed with the condition, Ross continued to work in his role as announcer for AEW (All Elite Wrestling) as he awaited further medical advice. He later shared that he would receive radiation treatment.

Jim Ross is considered one of the greatest announcers in the history of professional wrestling, Ross has worked for major wrestling promotions WWE, WCW, AEW, and NJPW. He was inducted into the Wrestling Observer Newsletter Hall of Fame in 1999 and the WWE Hall of Fame in 2007.

More about Jim Ross's path to skin cancer recovery and his impact on the wrestling industry

After his diagnosis, Jim Ross supposedly had 22 radiation treatments over the next two months. He declared in December 2021 that he was cancer-free.

According to E! News, The event also marked his first commentary appearance on AEW Dynamite, returning to his position as commentator. During his treatment, Ross said that the AEW President Tony Khan stood as a supportive figure, explaining that Khan supported his recovery plan from the start.

Yet side effects from the first skin cancer treatment persisted. Jim Ross still had a wound on his leg from where the 2021 cancer had been (Cageside Seats).

In February 2024, he announced that he had a surgery to resolve cancer situated in or around his hip. He did not say if the skin cancer was the same type of cancer or a different kind, but did confirm the surgery had been a success.

Trending

Jim Ross became well known in the mid late 1980s and early 1990s, he made a name for himself in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF, now WWE), as the promotion's lead play by play announcer, lead commentator, and ringside interviewer.

According to National Wrestling Hall Of Fame, more than just a commentator, Ross made many crucial contributions backstage, acting as a talent scout, and advisor who helped set the course for the careers of countless future stars of wrestling.

×

Was this article helpful?

Thank You for feedback