About this episode
Jim Ross and Conrad Thompson discuss the current state of the wrestling business, including venue changes, contracts, and talent health.
On this episode of Grilling JR , Jim Ross and Conrad Thompson dive into some of the biggest conversations shaping the wrestling business today. JR explains why taking wrestling to new venues and fresh markets is a smart move for the industry, and how changing the atmosphere can re-energize both fans and talent alike. JR also reflects on his relationship with Ted Turner , sharing stories about Turner's loyalty, leadership, and the support he showed throughout JR's career. The conversation then turns to the realities of wrestling contracts, as JR breaks down why a five-year deal doesn't always mean a guaranteed five-year run in today's business climate. Plus, JR gives his thoughts on the evolving "TKO playbook," how corporate decision-making is reshaping the wrestling landscape, and why reducing the number of house shows may ultimately help preserve talent health and extend careers. All that and JR takes us inside the pages of his incredible book, "Business Is About To Pick Up" for his telling of the historic WrestleMania 25 match between The Undertaker and Shawn Michaels. BLUECHEW - Right now, when you buy two months of BlueChew Gold, you get the third for FREE with promo code JR…
People in this episode
Hosts: Jim Ross, Conrad Thompson
Topics covered
- wrestling business
- wrestling contracts
- Ted Turner
- talent health
- WrestleMania 25
- corporate decision-making
Keywords
- wrestling
- contracts
- Ted Turner
- talent health
- WrestleMania 25
- BlueChew
- Morgan & Morgan
Sponsors
BlueChew, Morgan & Morgan
Mentioned in this episode
Products: BlueChew, Morgan & Morgan
Books & works: Business Is About To Pick Up
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- Episode 371: Ask JR Anything · May 14, 2026 · 1h 19m
- Episode 369: New Game Plan Now! · April 30, 2026 · 1h 6m
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