One big thing: Jim Ross voices concern over unprotected chair shot in AEW Blood and Guts match
Legendary wrestling commentator Jim Ross shared his unease about a controversial chair shot during the recent AEW Blood and Guts match on his “Grilling JR” podcast.
• The incident occurred on the July 24 episode of AEW Dynamite
• Mark Briscoe delivered an unprotected chair shot to Jack Perry’s head
• Perry was handcuffed to the Blood and Guts structure at the time
What Ross said:
• “I was uncomfortable with it, to be honest with you.”
• “I was mildly shocked that it came from such velocity and harmful intent.”
• “There are ways to get the same violence without scrambling a guy’s brains.”
Why it matters
The use of unprotected chair shots to the head has been a contentious issue in professional wrestling for years due to the potential for concussions and long-term brain damage. AEW’s decision to include this spot in their match has reignited the debate about safety versus spectacle in the industry.
The bigger picture
• The Blood and Guts match featured other extreme elements, including thumbtacks and staplers
• The chair shot garnered strong reactions both in the arena and online
• It raises questions about the limits of violence in modern professional wrestling
Between the lines
While Ross acknowledged that the spot was a calculated decision, his comments reflect a growing concern within the wrestling community about the long-term health impacts of such high-risk maneuvers.
The bottom line
As AEW continues to push boundaries with its programming, the company may need to reevaluate its approach to balancing fan expectations with performer safety.
What do you think about the use of unprotected chair shots in professional wrestling? Are they a necessary part of the spectacle, or should they be banned entirely? Leave your thoughts in the comments below.
