Jim Ross to Do Play-by-Play Announcing for New Japan Pro Wrestling on AXS TV

WWE Hall of Fame announcer Jim Ross is back in the game, as it was announced Tuesday that "Good Ol' JR" will assume play-by-play announcing duties for the New Japan Pro Wrestling promotion.

According to Sam Gardner of Fox Sports, Ross will soon begin working on voice-over calls in Los Angeles alongside former UFC star Josh Barnett, and his commentary will first air on the March 4 episode of AXS TV's New Japan Pro Wrestling show.

Per Gardner, the 64-year-old Oklahoman is thrilled to be part of one of the world's biggest wrestling brands:

"

I'm a big fan of the New Japan product as they have been one of the most highly regarded brands within the genre for decades. New Japan has a unique opportunity with AXS TV to grow their brand in North America. The more fans sample the athleticism, physicality, no-nonsense presentation of NJPW the more they're going to like it.

For me, the New Japan Pro Wrestling business philosophy reminds me of my earlier years in wrestling. I've had numerous other offers, some serious and others just flirting to return to TV wrestling broadcasting but none have had the appeal that AXS TV offered me. We think my style will fit the NJPW in-ring presentation well. We'll know that conclusively in early March. Plus, AXS TV and I discussed other potential projects outside NJPW.

"

That excitement trickles down to Barnett, as well, who fully understands JR's place in history as one of the greatest wrestling announcers of all time:

"It's a dream to be able to sit next to the legendary Jim Ross and call the incredible wrestling action of New Japan Pro Wrestling," Barnett said. "I've listened to his commentary throughout the years and I'm glad to have someone as distinguished as him to work with in the booth."

Barnett previously worked with Mauro Ranallo at NJPW, but Ranallo was hired by WWE in December as the new voice of SmackDown.