Jim Ross Absent From Last Night's WWE SmackDown! Tapings

As noted last night here on the website, Jim Ross asked for the night off at tonight's WWE Smackdown/ECW TV tapings in Lexington, KY due to a family function. His wedding anniversary was this week, so that may have been the obligation but is not confirmed. It usually is looked down upon when commentators ask for time off and the last time Ross requested a day off to attend an Oklahoma game he was denied. Ross did not work this week's SD! taping so this time around he received the day off. Michael Cole and Todd Grisham hosted the show.

While it is possible some in the wrestling media could be looking a little too much into the situation, Ross' deal with WWE is believed to be expiring at the end of this year and as of last word he has not signed a new deal.