The wrestling world recently lost a true legend, Dory Funk Jr., and the ripple effects of his passing continue to resonate far beyond the squared circle. While many have paid tribute to the WWE Hall of Famer, Jim Ross’s recent reflections on his podcast, Grilling JR, offer a uniquely personal and insightful perspective that goes beyond the typical eulogies. Personally, I think what makes Ross’s tribute stand out is his ability to weave together his own experiences with a broader appreciation for Funk’s legacy, creating a narrative that feels both intimate and universally relatable.
One thing that immediately stands out is Ross’s recollection of his first main event as a referee—a match between Dory Funk Jr. and Harley Race that ended in a 60-minute draw. What many people don’t realize is that this wasn’t just a match; it was a masterclass in wrestling psychology. Ross’s admission that he didn’t understand the term ‘Broadway’ until he was in the ring with Funk highlights the unspoken language of the sport—a language Funk spoke fluently. This raises a deeper question: How much of wrestling’s magic lies in these unscripted, behind-the-scenes moments? From my perspective, it’s these stories that humanize legends like Funk and remind us that their greatness wasn’t just in their moves, but in their ability to mentor and inspire.
What makes this particularly fascinating is Funk’s role as a trainer. His work with stars like Kurt Angle, Edge, and Christian Cage wasn’t just about teaching moves; it was about instilling a mindset. Ross’s description of Funk as a ‘hell of a teacher’ with a ‘coach’s mentality’ underscores the idea that wrestling is as much about discipline and character as it is about athleticism. If you take a step back and think about it, Funk’s legacy isn’t just in the matches he wrestled, but in the careers he helped shape. This is where his true impact lies—in the ripple effect of his teachings across generations.
A detail that I find especially interesting is Ross’s observation about Funk’s lifestyle. In an industry often associated with excess, Funk stood out for his discipline—always in great shape, never indulging in drugs or alcohol. What this really suggests is that Funk’s success wasn’t accidental; it was the result of a deliberate, principled approach to life and wrestling. This raises another question: How much of Funk’s longevity and respect in the industry can be attributed to this disciplined mindset? In my opinion, it’s a lesson not just for wrestlers, but for anyone striving for excellence in their field.
Ross’s uncertainty about attending Funk’s funeral due to his own health issues adds a poignant layer to the story. It’s a reminder of the fragility of life and the bonds that form within the wrestling community. What this really suggests is that the sport is as much about camaraderie as it is about competition. Personally, I think this is what makes wrestling so compelling—it’s a world where rivalries and respect coexist, where legends like Funk leave behind not just a body of work, but a legacy of relationships.
If you take a step back and think about it, Dory Funk Jr.’s passing isn’t just a loss for wrestling; it’s a moment to reflect on the values he embodied—discipline, mentorship, and integrity. From my perspective, his story is a testament to the idea that true greatness isn’t just about what you achieve, but about how you inspire others along the way. What this really suggests is that Funk’s legacy will endure not just in the annals of wrestling history, but in the lives of those he touched—both in and out of the ring.
