Jim Ross Reveals Upcoming Brain Surgery After Nearly 40-Day Hospital Stay

WWE Hall of Famer and AEW commentator Jim Ross has disclosed that he is preparing to undergo brain surgery in the coming days, marking the latest chapter in a serious health battle that has kept the 74-year-old largely out of the public eye for months.

Speaking on his podcast Grilling JR — his first episode since returning home — Ross opened up about the procedure with characteristic candor and humor. “I’m just battling, I’m battling. I’m getting ready to have another surgery, brain surgery this time, and that’s going to be an adventure, because I don’t think they’re going to find much, oh God, my brain,” he quipped.

The surgery, which does not yet have a confirmed date but is expected within approximately the next week, received the necessary sign-off from Ross’s cardiologist on Friday, July 10. Doctors plan to insert a shunt designed to drain excess fluid from his brain — fluid Ross says has been severely impacting his memory. “It’s going someplace to get that fluid off my brain that’s making me not remember stuff,” he explained.

Ross traced the start of the ordeal to passing out at his home, an episode that led to what became a nearly 40-day hospital stay. He was discharged from a facility in Norman, Oklahoma, on June 30. The veteran broadcaster also successfully battled colon cancer in 2025.

Despite his trademark optimism, Ross was candid about how serious the situation feels. “I always thought that anytime they open your skull up, that is a serious piece of business, and this certainly feels that way,” he said. “It’s a little scary to be honest with you.” He stressed, however, that the procedure is not optional if he wants to recover, and he made clear his intention to do exactly that: “I’m going to heal up.”

Ross currently cannot drive and has limited his public appearances, with his daughter assisting in his day-to-day recovery. He did mention plans to attend a major event in Minneapolis in the weeks ahead. For now, the wrestling world’s most recognizable voice is focused on getting through surgery and getting back on his feet.