Jim Ross’ 10 Greatest WWE Signings Ever

8. Jack Swagger

A fellow Oklahoma native, Jack Swagger - now competing in AEW as Jake Hager - was actually brought in after Ross' role in talent relations was over with. Swagger enjoyed success in both football and wrestling throughout his school and college days, being a two time All-American. Swagger was introduced to JR during his college junior year, and after liking what he'd seen of him, the word is that Ross told the youngster to get in touch with him once his studies were complete - something he duly did.

Real name Jacob Hager, he had the look and the background that WWE searched for in terms of finding athletes with the skills to become main roster stars. Swagger aced his tryouts and spent a couple of years in developmental from 2006, and ended up being Ross' last talent hire. He wasn't a bad one either, as Ross stated just after he first tasted silverware as ECW champion in early 2009: "There is no reason Swagger shouldn't be a star if he continues to work hard and doesn't make any foolish or irresponsible mistakes. Educated 6'6" 270 pounders with natural balance, agility, a wrestling background and a bona fide mean streak aren't easy to find."

Swagger debuted in the recreated ECW in 2008. In addition to the brand's title, he won the the United States title, Money in the Bank, and even the World Heavyweight Championship. He left WWE in 2017, and has since re-established his relevance as Chris Jericho's bruiser on Dynamite.