By James Caldwell, Torch assistant editor

-- WWE Hall of Fame announcer Jim Ross says he is not "gone from WWE" and he expects to hear about a potential new assignment this week.

Ross no longer has a talent contract, as he is simply a regular office employee. Ross said he expects to be presented with the assignment, which he will have the option to accept or decline.

"There is a misconception that I am 'gone' from WWE and that is not accurate. I am an employee in good standing, over 17 years, with the company and within a few days my new job description, etc will be established," Ross said in a late-night blog on jrsbarbq.com.

"At that point I can either commit and go kick ass in a new arena or I can say no thank you. I actually do have many interests within the biz that interest me other than announcing although that is my favorite thing to do professionally."

Ross hinted that his potential assignment could be talent scouting, as he finds it "intriguing and challenging" to find the next big star to bring in to the WWE fold.

"I am a major proponent of the developmental system within the business and feel it is the life blood for the long term future of wrestling. Even at 58, one finds it hard to leave 'the nest' especially if one helps build the nest," Ross said.

-- Ross also addressed the vacant Raw GM slot, which he said he is not up for consideration, nor would he want to be considered for the role. Ross said he would like to nominate new U.S. champion Bret Hart for the gig.

"Yes, Raw is going to name a new GM this Monday night and even though my name has been one of many under Internet consideration I can assure you that I have no plans whatsoever to be in Toledo Monday but rather will be watching Raw, as usual, in my La-Z-Boy in my living room in Norman," Ross said. "I hereby nominate U.S. champion Bret Hart for the task. Or Chelsea Handler. Or Joey Styles. Or The Fink."

-- Ross brought up TNA head writer Vince Russo reportedly re-locating to Nashville (where TNA is headquartered) in the near future. Ross shot down a question from a reader that Russo's move would "restore Ross's interest in wrestling."

"After 36 years in all areas of the wrestling biz, my interest is just as strong regarding all phases of the product as it has ever been and perhaps even more so considering that I have been off the road full time since last October. It's hard to believe that I haven't called a match in 7 months," Ross said.

"I'm still not sure what Russo's relocation has to do with my 'restoration' as he works for one company and I work for another and he specializes in one area of the biz and I another."

Jason Powell of Prowrestling.net reported in this week's newly-released Pro Wrestling Torch Newsletter that "Vince Russo continues to tell people that he would be willing to take a break or leave creative altogether if the company found the right replacement." Powell also reported details on who Russo would like to have replace him on creative, but it's not Jim Ross. Details in this week's VIP-exclusive Torch Newsletter.

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