Jim Ross believes Kevin Owens would have been a world champion in AEW, and he thinks it could still happen.
On the latest episode of Grilling JR, co-host Conrad Thompson asked Ross what Owens would have looked like in AEW. Ross didn’t hesitate.
Champion. He could have been world champion, still could. He’s not an old guy.
The Hall of Fame broadcaster praised Owens’ reputation and his range.
I hear he’s a good locker room guy. He can work with anybody as a babyface, a heel, and that’s a great trait to have.
Ross also credited WWE for taking care of Owens while he was hurt, including paying for his surgery. Still, he left the door open.
“It’s not too late for him to be in AEW at some point in time. At least that’s my take on it, and I would welcome him with open arms if I were Tony Khan.”
He’s just a hell of a hand, and he’s a rugged heel.
Ross stressed that he was not reporting that Owens is leaving WWE.
Ross has a personal connection to Owens. He said they grew closer after he learned how Owens picked up English.
I found out that he learned to speak English in Montreal by listening to me do commentary.
Owens has long-standing ties to AEW talent from his days in Pro Wrestling Guerrilla, including The Young Bucks. He signed a five-year contract with WWE in early 2025, which runs through at least 2029.
Owens returned at SummerSlam in August after neck fusion surgery. He beat Cody Rhodes and Johnny Gargano in a triple threat on SmackDown on Oct. 2 to earn a spot in the men’s Money in the Bank ladder match. The event takes place Saturday in New Orleans.
Ross picked CM Punk to win the briefcase.
