Jim Ross reports that former NWA Champion Gene Kiniski is fighting for his life, comments on the death of Chris Kanyon, and new WWE World Hvt. Champion Jack Swagger

WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross updated the blog section of JRsbarbq.com. The following items are among the highlights.

-Ross on former NWA Champion Gene Kiniski: "Former NWA World Champion Gene Kiniski has apparently taken a turn for the worse and is battling to stay alive. 'Big Thunder's' cancer has spread to his brain and some speculate that is is just a matter of time for the former Canadian Football League player and respected, pro wrestling star known for being an athletic, big man who was always in awesome cardiovascular condition. Our prayers are with the family of Gene."

Powell's POV: Likewise, my thoughts are with Gene and his family on this holiday Sunday.

-Ross on the death of Chris Kanyon: "Our condolences go out to the family and friends of Chris Kanyon who was found dead this weekend in his apartment in Queens, New York. The death is being investigated as a suicide as those close to Chris say that he has been battling depression for quite some time. Chris abruptly retired from wrestling and then also declared that he was a gay American which were both major developments in his life. I never knew Chris lead an alternative life style when he was with WWE for a few years not that it would have made any difference to me one way or another. Chris was an innovative wrestler who always sought new maneuvers and holds to utilize in his matches and was a really good teacher and helped many of today's stars with a variety of in ring techniques."

Powell's POV: Ross had more to say on Kanyon's death in his full blog. As always, I take a few snippets, but I don't take the full blog, so be sure to use the link above to read the entire report.

-Ross on new World Hvt. Champion Jack Swagger: "Swagger was my last 'recruit' in WWE and I hope that he has a long, productive career that sees him stay injury free and becomes financial independent. I'd love to see Swagger be able to establish his Championship reign over an extended period of time but wish him the best nonetheless. We had a great, private conversation after Wrestlemania at the hotel and he knows what I personally expect of him and what he potentially can do in WWE if he catches a break, conducts himself as a professional, and works harder than any one on the roster night in and night out."

Powell's POV: I was concerned that Swagger was going to be unsuccessful when he cashed in his contract, so it was a pleasant surprise when he beat Chris Jericho for the belt at Tuesday's WWE Smackdown taping. I'm looking forward to seeing what WWE has in store for Swagger in terms of the length of his title reign and how he is portrayed during his run as the champion.

Other topics include J.R. brainstorming about book concepts, how WrestleMania 26 weekend could play a part in a book, UFC's "The Ultimate Fighter" reality show.