The Attitude Era of WWE, spanning from the late 1990s to the early 2000s, was a pivotal period in professional wrestling history. It was an era marked by edgy content, intense rivalries, and larger-than-life characters.
While names like The Rock and Stone Cold Steve Austin are often credited with defining this era, a certain WWE Hall of Famer, Jim Ross, has emphasized the crucial role he and his commentary partner, Jerry Lawler, played in shaping the era’s iconic moments.
As the legendary commentary duo, JR and The King, Ross and Lawler’s voices and reactions to the era’s most memorable events have become an integral part of wrestling lore.
Their enthusiasm, expertise, and chemistry in the commentary booth elevated the on-screen action, making the experience more immersive for fans. Ross recently acknowledged the significance of their contribution, responding to a Twitter post that suggested their presence was essential to the Attitude Era’s success.
The importance of Ross and Lawler’s commentary during this period cannot be overstated. They brought a unique energy to the broadcasts, their banter and play-by-play calls adding depth and emotion to the matches. Their reactions to pivotal moments, like Mankind’s historic Hell in a Cell fall or the infamous McMahon-Helmsley faction’s rise to power, are still revered by fans today.
The recent WrestleMania XL’s main event, which saw Cody Rhodes take on The Bloodline, served as a testament to the era’s lasting impact. The appearance of John Cena, followed by a confrontation with The Rock, rekindled memories of their past rivalry. However, it was The Undertaker’s surprise entrance that raised eyebrows, sparking debate about why Steve Austin didn’t make an appearance instead.
In a recent episode of his Grilling JR podcast, Ross offered insight into why Austin wasn’t involved in the segment. While the reason remains unclear, it’s undeniable that Austin’s presence would have sent the crowd into a frenzy, perhaps even surpassing the excitement generated by The Rock’s appearance.
Jim Ross’s remarks and the WrestleMania XL main event serve as poignant reminders of the Attitude Era’s enduring legacy. As we reflect on the era’s significance, it’s essential to acknowledge the often-overlooked contributions of Ross and Lawler, whose commentary and chemistry behind the mic helped shape the era’s most iconic moments. Their influence continues to inspire new generations of wrestling fans, solidifying their status as unsung heroes of the Attitude Era.
