Legendary wrestling commentator Jim Ross recently shared his insights on several prominent figures in the wrestling world, expressing confidence in AJ Styles' new mentoring role, discussing John Laurinaitis' return to public appearances, and speculating on "Stone Cold" Steve Austin's potential involvement at WrestleMania 42.

AJ Styles: A "Phenomenal" Mentor for WWE Talent

Jim Ross believes AJ Styles will be an exceptional mentor for WWE's emerging talent. The veteran AEW commentator lauded Styles' readiness to coach after his recent retirement from in-ring competition, highlighting the essential experience Styles brings to wrestlers at every developmental stage.

Styles concluded his illustrious in-ring career at the 2026 Royal Rumble in January. Following his retirement, he signed a new deal with WWE, transitioning into a multi-faceted role as a mentor and talent scout. Ross, speaking on his Grilling JR podcast, emphasized that Styles possesses rare credibility, especially with younger performers.

Styles made a name for himself as a smaller competitor who defied traditional wrestling molds. He honed his technical skillset over decades, becoming one of the sport's greatest performers despite his physical stature. Ross pointed out that this journey makes Styles' guidance invaluable, particularly for young wrestlers who often grapple with their size and build. His career teaches promising talent that innovation and in-ring psychology can matter more than physical dimensions.

Ross revealed that a recent phone call from Styles deeply impressed him, showcasing Styles' character and genuine desire to help the next generation succeed. Ross called Styles a "breath of fresh air" and one of the finest talents he's ever worked with. Styles' personality, Ross noted, makes him uniquely suited for mentorship, combining technical knowledge with strong interpersonal skills to effectively develop young wrestlers.

In his new position, Styles will be a talent scout, identifying and evaluating independent wrestlers. He'll also serve as a developmental coach, training NXT talent in in-ring psychology and fundamentals. Additionally, he'll act as a main roster mentor, providing guidance to established WWE performers, and will work with independent wrestlers through the WWE ID Program. Styles has already begun these backstage responsibilities, working at the WWE Performance Center and across various company divisions.

John Laurinaitis' Public Comeback Amidst Legal Aftermath

Jim Ross also weighed in on John Laurinaitis' upcoming independent appearance, suggesting it's primarily a financial decision. Laurinaitis is scheduled to appear at Big Time Wrestling's March Mayhem event in Chillicothe, Ohio, on March 14. This marks his first public appearance in over two years and his first independent signing.

Ross stated plainly on Grilling JR, "It's a payday. That's the one thing. He's not doing it for his humanitarian efforts. He's doing it for the payday." He acknowledged that Laurinaitis would likely be a compelling guest, easy to interview.

Laurinaitis largely stayed out of the public eye since January 2024, when former WWE employee Janel Grant filed a federal lawsuit. The lawsuit accused Vince McMahon, Laurinaitis, and WWE of sexual assault and sex trafficking, alleging that McMahon and Laurinaitis coerced Grant into sexual acts and used a $3 million nondisclosure agreement to silence her. McMahon resigned from TKO Group Holdings, WWE's parent company, shortly after the lawsuit was filed, denying all allegations.

In May 2025, Laurinaitis was dismissed from the lawsuit after reaching a confidential settlement with Grant. As part of that agreement, Laurinaitis committed to cooperating and providing evidence in Grant's ongoing case against McMahon and WWE. The lawsuit against McMahon and WWE remains active, with a hearing set for June 2026 to determine if the case will proceed in court or private arbitration.

Laurinaitis recently explained on the Two Man Power Trip podcast that his return also holds personal significance. The March Mayhem event coincides with the Road Warriors' induction into the Ohio Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame, featuring a tribute match. Laurinaitis's brother, Joe Laurinaitis, was known as Road Warrior Animal before his passing in 2020. "The reason I'm doing it is because it's kind of ironic, the Road Warriors are being inducted into the Ohio Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame," Laurinaitis said, calling his first appearance honoring his brother "really special." Ross expressed hope that this event could pave the way for more future appearances for Laurinaitis.

"Stone Cold" Steve Austin at WrestleMania 42: An Appearance, Not a Match

WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross also shared his thoughts on rumors surrounding "Stone Cold" Steve Austin potentially appearing at WrestleMania 42, particularly regarding a special "3:16 Day" appearance on WWE Raw in Texas. Ross believes an appearance is plausible, but a wrestling match is highly unlikely.

"To wrestle? No," Ross stated on his Grilling J.R. podcast. "To make an appearance or to shoot an angle or something along those lines? I could see that potentially happening." Ross was firm in his stance against Austin wrestling again. "As far as Steve having another match, I don't see it. I'm not being pessimistic or a 'Negative Nelly' or a 'Negative Nelson' whatever. That's not where his head is and he's trying to take care of himself health-wise."

Ross reminded listeners that wrestlers, even legends, aren't immune to injuries. "You know, we just forget these guys are not Iron Man. When they're hurt, they're hurt. And Austin's got that bad neck. He's having bad knees." He concluded that the risk isn't worth it for Austin. "I don't think it's worth the risk, quite frankly. I think that's how Steve would look at it and I know him pretty well, but I don't think there's any chance. There's a chance obviously that he could do something, but do I think he'll wrestle? No way in hell."

Ross believes Austin's health concerns, particularly his recurring neck and knee issues, make a return to the ring too great a risk for the legendary performer.