WWE Hall of Fame commentator Jim Ross has once again addressed racism allegations made by D-Von Dudley, firmly denying the claims while offering to reconnect with the Dudley Boyz legend—but only in private.
Speaking on his "Grilling JR" podcast with Conrad Thompson, Ross appeared frustrated at having to repeatedly address the situation.
How many times do I gotta address it to satisfy everybody? I am not a racist. I have never been a racist," Ross stated. "Ask some of the African-American athletes that I've been around and worked with in my 50-year career. They'll say the same thing.
Despite the ongoing controversy, Ross extended an olive branch to D-Von, though he made clear he won't turn their reconciliation into content.
No problem, Conrad. I'm happy to do it. I'm just not going to put it on tape and make a TV show out of it. Period," Ross said. "I am interested in reconnecting with Devon because I like Devon.
Ross expressed bewilderment at the allegations, stating he has no memory of negative interactions with D-Von.
I was bewildered by how this could happen because like I said, I don't remember any negative exchanges with him," Ross explained. "There's no ill will in my heart towards Devon or any other person of color.
The controversy took a new turn when D-Von claimed in a recent video that Ross was "extremely drunk" during the alleged incident, potentially explaining why Ross has no recollection of the events.
What Happened With Jim Ross and D-Von Dudley?
Timeline of Events:
- 1990s–2000s: D-Von Dudley and Jim Ross work together in WWE during the Dudley Boyz run, with Ross in talent relations and on commentary.
- October 2025: On his own YouTube/podcast, D-Von says he experienced racism from certain WWE officials and later confirms he is referring to Jim Ross.
- Late December 2025: On “Grilling JR,” Ross publicly denies the allegations, calls them “absurd,” and says he has never been a racist.
- January 2026 (early): In a new YouTube video, D-Von provides detailed accounts of two alleged racist incidents involving Ross (a WWE restaurant event and an Indianapolis interaction involving Paul Heyman) and says Ross was very drunk/heavily intoxicated during one of them.
- January 2026 (following days): Ross addresses the situation again on “Grilling JR,” reiterates his denial, states he is not and has never been a racist, and says he would have no problem reconnecting with D-Von privately while expressing confusion over the accusations.
The situation remains unresolved several months later, with Ross maintaining his innocence while keeping the door open for private dialogue with D-Von to clear the air.
