Episode 371: Ask JR Anything
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In this lively episode of Grilling JR, host Conrad the Mortgage Guy sits down with legendary wrestling commentator Jim Ross for a deep dive into AEW's latest Dynamite card, the upcoming Double or Nothing pay-per-view, and the enduring legacy of wrestling storytelling. Ross shares his enthusiasm for rising stars like Darby Allin and the potential of the Okada vs. Takeshita main event, while also praising AEW's Owen Hart tournament as a meaningful tribute with clear narrative stakes. The conversation shifts to personal passions as Ross reveals his extensive collection of Mickey Mantle memorabilia, including a prized 1951 Bowman rookie card, and shares stories of his late wife Jan’s rock and roll memorabilia collection. Ross also weighs in on industry topics, advocating for the return of house shows to develop talent, and offers a dream roster of five top wrestlers to build a new promotion. The episode closes with a heartfelt tribute to the late Barry Blaustein, the visionary behind the documentary 'Beyond the Mat,' and a special video excerpt from Ross’s book 'Slobberknocker' detailing the complex behind-the-scenes creation of Sting’s rise in WCW.
Storytelling is paramount in wrestling—every match needs a clear beginning, middle, and end with a meaningful finish.
House shows remain vital for developing talent and giving green wrestlers live experience in front of paying audiences.
Mickey Mantle is Jim Ross’s favorite athlete and a personal icon, with a prized 1951 rookie card and deep emotional connection to his legacy.
Collecting memorabilia is more than hobby—it’s about preserving stories, memories, and personal history.
A successful wrestling promotion needs strong product knowledge and strategic booking, not just star power.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Welcome to Blue Chew Studio & AEW Dynamite Recap
The episode opens with a sponsor plug for Blue Chew Gold, followed by a lively recap of the recent AEW Dynamite show, including praise for Darby Allin’s momentum and Mark Briscoe’s return. Jim Ross expresses excitement for the upcoming Double or Nothing pay-per-view.
The Power of Storytelling in Wrestling
“It's all about the finish. A shitty, a great match with a lame finish doesn't do anybody any favors.”
Mickey Mantle: A Personal and Professional Icon
“Collecting the valuable card is like adopting a kid into your family. And I have no desire to sell any of it.”
The Legacy of Collecting: From Rock to Wrestling
Ross reveals that his wife Jan curated a vast collection of signed rock and roll memorabilia, including guitars and albums. He expresses hope that his granddaughters will appreciate the legacy.
Dream Roster: Building a Promotion from Scratch
“If he's a heel, people will pay money to watch him lose. He's that good.”
“He made a lot of contributions that unfortunately, a lot of folks are never going to know about. So maybe we can help tell that story going forward.”
“Collecting the valuable card is like adopting a kid into your family. And I have no desire to sell any of it.”
“We had to come up with a wrestling angle for a guy in a full body cast. The executives wanted us to be seen as Hollywood friendly, just like Vince was in WWF.”
Host
Guest
Jim Ross
person
Conrad the Mortgage Guy
person
Mickey Mantle
person
AEW Dynamite
other
Double or Nothing
other
Darby Allin
person
MJF
person
Sting
person
Blue Chew Gold
product
Ric Flair
person
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