The Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame (not WWE’s Hall of Fame – no affiliation) has announced that Jim Ross will be receiving the prestigious Lou Thesz Award at this summer’s ceremony:

WATERLOO, Iowa — One of the biggest names in professional wrestling will be recognized by the National Wrestling Hall of Fame Dan Gable Museum. Jim Ross, a ring announcer and an executive for World Wrestling Entertainment, will receive the Lou Thesz Award at the George Tragos/Lou Thesz Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame inductions on July 22-23.

The Lou Thesz Award is given to an individual in wrestling who has taken the skills of professional wrestling into the realm of public service.

The award is presented by the National Wrestling Hall of Fame Dan Gable Museum and Eblen Charities. Eblen Charities is a North Carolina based non-profit organization that assists children, adults, and families in times of need.

Hall of Famer Gerald Brisco will present Ross his award at an induction banquet on Saturday, July 23. The banquet will be held at the Five Sullivan Brothers Convention Center in Waterloo, Iowa.

“Jim Ross carries the passion and dedication to make this profession the very best it can be,“ said Brisco. “I think Lou Thesz would be honored to know good old JR will be receiving this great award.”

Ross is one of the most recognized names in professional wrestling. He is best-known as a professional wrestling commentator and for his work with World Wrestling Entertainment. Ross has been heavily involved with scouting and talent development with the WWE.

Ross consistently works with several service organizations, including the Support Our Troops initiative, Circle of Champions, and Get R.E.A.L. (Respect, Education, Achievement, Leadership). He has also been involved with Meetings with Children with Life Threatening Illnesses.

“My boyhood hero was Lou Thesz,” said Jim Ross. “Getting the Lou Thesz Award is an overwhelming honor. I’m looking forward to being in Waterloo for this event.”

Ross will take part in all weekend activities, including a special training session at Five Sullivan Brothers Convention Center on Friday, July 22. Professional wrestlers who have committed to attending induction weekend include Terry Funk, Gerald Brisco, “Hacksaw” Jim Duggan, Mick Foley, Jim Raschke, Danny Hodge, Bob Roop, Larry Hennig, Fritz Von Goering, and Colt Cabana.

For more information on the weekend, or for information on ordering banquet tickets, contact the National Wrestling Hall of Fame Dan Gable Museum at (319) 233-0745 or orders@wrestlingmuseum.org.

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