JRK discusses ICW, life as a colour commentator, & why he wears sunglasses indoors (Exclusive)

Billy Kirkwood and JRK. Photo: Mr. David J Wilson

I've saved this one until near the end because it could be controversial, but as someone who's done a bit of writing in your time, what's your opinion on "wrestling journalism"?

I've been writing about wrestling since I was a little boy. Back home, I've still got loads of scrapbooks and notepads full of articles and ideas. It's been an obsession ever since I clapped eyes on that 'Mania III VHS tape at a neighbor's house, and I've been lucky enough to turn writing into a career.

One thing does sadden me though. I get annoyed when I see some fans treat opinion pieces as gospel. Without naming names, a certain journo's star ratings system has created a culture in which people believe matches rated lower on that particular scale are worthless. It's unfair, it's restrictive and it shouldn't be taken as the law.

Enjoyment is subjective, but there are those who preach a more elitist view than others. It's sad to think that these fans look down on those who like different things about wrestling than their favorite writer does. There are no rules when it comes to personal preference, and I think too many forget that or feel guilty for liking what they like.

Everybody Else: Aw look, Elias is back. Batista: HGHDKDMAGURLJKSDJSDKJDS%!!!!! pic.twitter.com/M9w5pmNCYe

— JRK (@topclasskennedy) November 30, 2019

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And one final question - what's the end goal and the ambition for James R Kennedy?

It sounds cliched, but I'm honestly just enjoying the ride. That's not to say I don't have goals, and I'm proud to say that I've achieved an awful lot of ambitions I had when I started this journey in 2010.

I want to continue to learn as a color commentator, branch out into some play-by-play, maybe do some more radio and generally have fun. Wrestling is supposed to be fun, and that's occasionally easy to lose sight of. My main goal is to turn the right heads and earn my way to an opportunity with one of the bigger companies. I'm absolutely not above or adverse to putting a shift in, listening to feedback and doing everything I can to improve.

Wrestling commentary is something I love, and I'm lucky to have had the experiences I've had with it to date. I only want more.

The folks in charge of @DEFIANTwres gave me my first real chance to be a colour commentator, and that’s something I’ll never forget. We’ve been on an amazing journey the past 3 years. Thank you to every wrestler, referee, staff member and fan who made it all possible. ❤️👌 pic.twitter.com/5vzz2GgBBf

— JRK (@topclasskennedy) August 1, 2019

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You can follow JRK here, and ICW here, and subscribe to ICW On Demand here.