Jim Ross Speaks About Andrade El Idolo’s Return To AEW: “I Didn’t Know He Was Even In The Building”

J.R. was surprised to see Andrade.

For the first time since August 2025, Jim Ross was back on commentary for All Elite Wrestling. He returned for the first Dynamite of 2026 in his home state of Oklahoma.

Ross was one of several returns on the night. Another individual who came back to the company was Andrade El Idolo, and he reunited with The Don Callis Family.

J.R. spoke about Andrade’s return and stated that he did not know El Idolo was in the building. Ross said the following on Grilling JR:

“I didn’t know he was even in the building, so, they kept him hid. He’s a good addition, he’s a player. He can work and he can work with anybody, and he looks good, classy-looking guy, and if he’s gonna be with Don Callis, that’ll help both of ‘em.”

Andrade first returned to AEW in October, following his run with WWE coming to an end. WWE enforced a year-long non-compete in Andrade’s deal, and Fightful Select later reported that RUSH put Andrade in contact with an attorney to get that handled.

Andrade was in action for NJPW at Wrestle Kingdom 20 and New Year Dash. Andrade was challenged by Gabe Kidd to a match for NJPW The New Beginning in Osaka on February 11th to determine who gets a shot at Yota Tsuji’s IWGP Global Heavyweight Title.

If the quote in this article is used, please credit Grilling J.R. with an H/T to Fightful for the transcription.