By James Caldwell, Torch assistant editor

WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross published a blog on jrsbarbq.com tonight acknowledging that his WWE talent contract as an on-air announcer expired today, but he still remains a WWE employee handling office duties.

"My WWE 'talent contract' has ended after a 17+ year run with the company. However, I am still a WWE employee handling the same talent relations functions that I have executed for the company for the past few years including since moving to Oklahoma," Ross said. "I simply do not have a 'talent contract' as WWE has no plans to utilize me as an on air talent at this time."

Ross said he has talked to WWE about continuing to work for the company with a new job description that would include his current payroll function and a talent relations project.

"I am considering this offer and I trust that a decision will be made soon regarding this opportunity," Ross said. "In the meantime, I am still interested in a variety of projects and opportunities."

Ross said he might be considering the new WWE office deal, but he still feels like he can contribute as a broadcaster in the industry even if WWE does not agree.

"While some may feel that it is in their best interest that I not remain in broadcasting, I do not share in that belief at this time," Ross said. "Somewhat like the recently estranged Halle Berry, I don't think that I will be lacking for 'suitors,' so to speak, if broadcasting's the road that I decide to travel."

Ross did not mention TNA in his blog, but he did mention MMA as a potential option to continue his broadcasting career now that he's no longer contracted by WWE as an on-air talent.

"Yes...I am a major MMA aficionado and that sport excites me just as football has for years. Perhaps now's the time to pursue one or both of those ventures," Ross said. "No...I am not 'angry' at the turn of events as it relates to my WWE broadcasting career. Disappointed, yes. Angry, no. Obviously, I would have liked to have had the ability to do a 'farewell broadcast' but that opportunity never occurred."

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