Jim Ross has stated that All Elite Wrestling should revisit the idea of running live non-televised events, saying he disagrees with the company’s current approach of not holding traditional house shows.

Speaking on Grilling JR, Ross discussed how he would structure such events and emphasized that they should directly reflect what fans see on television, with ongoing storylines carried into live events.

“All you’re going to do, Conrad — I let the cat out of the bag — it’s not a ritual here, but you book what’s on television. So you, for example, tonight, if I would have a live event or house show, you’re certainly going to use everybody. Everybody’s got a little story behind them, and when they see that, because the stories merit their exposure, you’ll get great cooperation. So all you’re basically doing is following the TV. You want people to see on television, see in that live event non-televised, you’re going to give them something they have a familiarity with, a match or a rivalry or whatever.”

Ross added that top stars should still be used in singles competition where appropriate, specifically mentioning Darby Allin in the context of AEW’s world championship picture.

“I probably would put Darby Allin in singles because he is your champion, and that’s just the process of helping him get over. He’s peaking on television, so why wouldn’t you. And a lot of events you would. But I wouldn’t load the card there for 16 or 18 guys.”

He stressed that house shows remain important for talent development, particularly for newer wrestlers gaining experience in front of paying crowds.

“I do believe that the house shows are extremely important to revisit from time to time, so that your green talent have a place to work in front of a paying audience. That’s essential to learn how to do that.”

Ross reiterated his disagreement with AEW’s current philosophy of not running regular live events, while acknowledging that there are logistical challenges involved in operating a touring schedule.

“In AEW’s case, there are no house shows, no live events. And I don’t agree with that philosophy, quite frankly. I think he could revisit live events, where it routes well and you get your talents ring time. There’s nothing better.”

He also pointed out that WWE’s continued use of live events serves multiple purposes beyond just in-ring performance.

“I’m surprised that WWE is still doing as many as they do, because I believe that’s a great recruiting tool for talent that you’re out there doing your thing. And because most of those young guys want to work, they want to be seen and recognized and remembered.”

However, Ross acknowledged the practical side of running such events, including financial and operational requirements.

“You gotta have the infrastructure. You gotta have the personnel. It’s not as easy as it sounds. There’s insurance issues. You gotta get all that in line, and you gotta have a separate promoter that’s going out and selling, getting your tickets sold. Worst thing you can do is have a house that you can shoot a gun off in and not hit anybody. It’s just not something you want to take a part of.”

AEW has largely avoided running traditional house shows since its launch in 2019, focusing instead on televised events and occasional special tapings.

Jim Ross Calls For AEW To Reconsider Running House Shows

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