Jim Ross is facing another setback in his recovery after doctors discovered bleeding during a recent CAT scan. The WWE Hall of Famer has also confirmed that he will undergo another brain procedure on Wednesday, October 7, less than two months after his previous surgery.
Ross underwent brain surgery in August to have a shunt inserted to drain excess fluid and help with the memory and balance problems that had been affecting him. The procedure initially made a noticeable difference to his balance and mobility, but he later began experiencing severe headaches that made it difficult for him to sleep.
Jim Ross revealed that adjusting the shunt without another procedure had not solved the problem. He announced the upcoming surgery on X, explaining that doctors need to address an issue with the device.
“Getting another brain surgery Wednesday morning to address an issue with my shunt. Positive thoughts appreciated. Thanks.”
The 74-year-old later provided more details during the October 6 episode of “Grilling JR.” Ross said his surgeon decided to turn the shunt off after reviewing the results of his CAT scan, even though the device had been helping him move around.
“Well, my surgeon who did the surgery on my head turned the shunt off because it was causing some issues, some problems.”
Ross admitted that he had mixed feelings about the decision because of the improvement he experienced while the shunt was functioning.
“So, I was kind of had mixed emotions about that because with the shunt on, my balance and me walking and things of that nature are enormously improved. And with the shunt off, I’ve gotta be a little bit more careful.”
He is now scheduled to meet another specialist in Oklahoma City after his surgeon referred him for further evaluation. Ross said he is trying to remain optimistic while waiting for more information.
The veteran then explained why his surgeon had acted so quickly after seeing the scan. The CAT scan had revealed bleeding, which was the reason the shunt was turned off.
“But I’m glad I got that—see, that, what you call it, the head thing—shunt? No, the what? CAT scan? Yeah, CAT scan. My CAT scan revealed some stuff that wasn’t too cool. But my surgeon, who got the results of the CAT scan, was all over it. And so we’ll see. It’s just—no surgery is foolproof.”
Ross later confirmed that his oncologist had also reviewed the scan and that the bleeding was behind the change in treatment.
“My oncologist and I had a good meeting, and she also looked at the results of the CAT scan, and they did the dye and all that stuff to make sure they knew what was going on. And it was bleeding, and that was why he turned the shunt off. So that’s where we are, Connie. I’m just—I’m still on the road to recovery, and I’m very optimistic that the results are gonna be good.”
The latest development follows Jim Ross revealing that he had been experiencing severe headaches while doctors were also investigating a spot on his kidney. He has not said that the kidney finding is confirmed to be cancerous, but it is another issue being evaluated as he continues his recovery.
Jim Ross’ Recent Health Struggles Have Kept Him Away From AEW
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Ross’ health problems have kept him from several AEW appearances during the past year. He had hoped to return to commentary at AEW All Out and previously wanted to attend All In London, but his recovery prevented both plans.
The longtime commentator has also dealt with cancer involving his skin, hip, and colon in recent years. He announced in 2025 that he was cancer-free for the third time and subsequently returned to the AEW broadcast booth for the final two matches of All In Texas.
The veteran also suffered two broken toes after falling on the morning of his August brain surgery, adding another complication to an already difficult recovery. With another procedure now scheduled and specialists continuing to evaluate his condition, his immediate priority is getting through the latest stage of treatment before determining when he can return to AEW commentary.
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