10 Things WWE Wants You To Forget About Jim Ross

6. Kicked Where It Hurts

JR's health issues re-emerged in October 2005, though he wasn't struck down by Bell's palsy this time. Doctors uncovered a serious issue with his colon. Surgery was necessary, and while he was ultimately found to be cancer-free, the procedure necessitated a lengthy absence from television, with Joey Styles taking his spot in the booth.

WWE needed a way of writing JR off during his period. Never ones to miss the opportunity to emasculate the poor sap, they decided to have Linda McMahon publicly fire him on an episode of Raw, then twist the knife by having her boot him in the family jewels on his way out.

This was problematic not only for the embarrassment caused to JR, but the damage done to Linda's future senate campaigns. Belittling McMahon's wrestling background as a way of undermining her political credentials was a common tactic among her opponents. The clip of her kicking JR in the gonads was a gift to them, and countless rivals used it as part of their campaign, with Linda failing in her attempts to be elected in both 2010 and 2012, costing the McMahons an estimated $97 million.

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Andy has been with WhatCulture for eight years and is currently WhatCulture's Wrestling Channel Manager. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.