Jim Ross Says Mike Santana Has a Chance To ‘Really Be Special’ In WWE

On the latest episode of his Grilling JR podcast, WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross praised Mike Santana — now going by Cruz Montana following his NXT debut — a performer Ross got to know well during Santana’s AEW run.

JR said that Montana has a big upside and that he wishes the former TNA World Champion well. You can check out his comments below:

On Santana’s WWE Upside:

“Oh, I like him a lot. I think they made a good hire. He’s a good guy, fundamentally sound as hell. But the thing he has that you can’t measure is passion. He’s got a lot of passion; he’s self-motivated. He’s living his dream, and I’d love to see guys at least get the attempt to live their dream.

“Depending on how he’s booked and what kind of creative he’s saddled with, he’s got a chance to really be special. His heritage is a positive, he’s physical, he’s a good athlete. I spent a lot of time with him when he was in AEW before I started getting sick every couple of weeks. I really wish him well. He’s totally paid the price, and he’s just a good dude. He’s one of those kind of guys you hope good things happen for.”

On Santana’s Words About Leaving TNA:

“He meant every word of it. He takes as much pride in being a father as he does being a main event wrestler. He’s a good dude, and I hope nothing but the best for him. Save your money, kid. Save your money. Remember, you can’t spend more than you make — nobody can, especially wrestlers, who judge their success sometimes on how many Lexuses they have or what kind of car they drive.”

If you use any of the quotes in this article, please credit the Grilling JR podcast with an h/t to 411mania.com for the transcription.