Jelly Roll Wants A Long Run In WWE. Should He Get It?

Jelly Roll (Jason Bradley DeFord), the multi-platinum rapper and singer, has expressed his desire to dive deeper into the world of professional wrestling. After making some impressive cameo appearances in WWE in 2024 and 2025, the Antioch, Tennessee, native now hopes for a full-fledged wrestling career with the company. With his remarkable journey from the music world to the wrestling ring, Jelly Roll’s ambition to pursue a more substantial role in WWE has sparked considerable discussion among fans and experts alike. But should he get the opportunity to carve out a long run in the company?

Jelly Roll’s Cameo At SummerSlam 2024

Jelly Roll’s journey into wrestling began in 2024, when he made his first significant appearance at WWE SummerSlam. Growing up a massive wrestling fan, DeFord was thrilled to perform “God Bless America” and his hit single “Liar” during the event. But it didn’t stop there. Jelly Roll got physical with a few WWE stars, delivering chair shots to Grayson Waller and Austin Theory, followed by a chokeslam to Theory. At that moment, his potential as a future WWE performer was clear, and he caught the attention of WWE CCO Paul “Triple H” Levesque.

DeFord told Triple H that if he could lose 100 pounds, he’d be ready for a match at SummerSlam 2025. This conversation gave DeFord the motivation he needed to take his wrestling dreams to the next level.

Jelly Roll’s Full Match At SummerSlam 2025

Fast forward to 2025, and Jelly Roll had shed an impressive 60-70 pounds. He worked tirelessly at the WWE Performance Center, eventually teaming up with WWE legend Randy Orton for a high-profile match at SummerSlam. The match, which saw DeFord and Orton face Drew McIntyre and Logan Paul, was well-received by fans and critics alike. While it wasn’t a five-star classic, Jelly Roll’s performance stood out among celebrity matches, and his willingness to take a pinfall, despite the original booking, showcased his dedication to the business.

Jelly Roll’s genuine passion for wrestling was evident in his match, as he wasn’t there to promote anything but to live out his childhood dream. His performance proved he had the heart and resilience to succeed in the ring, even if his athleticism didn’t match that of some younger talents like Logan Paul.

What Is Jelly Roll’s New Goal?

Now that DeFord has tasted the thrill of professional wrestling, he’s aiming higher. In a recent interview with Chris Van Vliet, Jelly Roll made it clear that he’s hooked. With a dramatically changed lifestyle — having lost over 250 pounds and established a successful music career — DeFord expressed his desire to return to WWE for another match. But his ambitions don’t stop there. Jelly Roll wants a full six- to nine-month run, performing weekly on Friday nights.

It’s clear that Jelly Roll’s passion for wrestling goes beyond just a one-off appearance. He wants to become a regular fixture in WWE, though there’s some debate over whether that’s a good idea. While he has the enthusiasm and a deep understanding of wrestling, there are concerns about his ability to transition fully into the wrestling world and sustain a long-term role. Unlike Logan Paul, whose athletic background has helped him become a seamless performer in the ring, Jelly Roll doesn’t have the same level of training or natural athleticism.

However, what Jelly Roll brings to WWE is something unique: storytelling and a genuine love for the industry. Unlike other celebrities who appear in WWE to promote projects, Jelly Roll isn’t there to advertise anything. He simply wants to contribute to the sport he’s admired for so long.

Should He Get It?

Should WWE allow Jelly Roll to have a full run in the company? The answer is likely not a simple yes or no. While he might not have the technical prowess of a seasoned wrestler, his story is compelling, and he has the charisma to connect with fans. His previous performances have shown that he can hang in the ring, and his passion is undeniable.

However, a weekly run in WWE might be too much for him, at least at this stage in his career. The physical demands of wrestling every week could be overwhelming, and while Jelly Roll is committed to his craft, WWE fans may not be entirely sold on the idea of him wrestling every Friday night. They may enjoy seeing him pop in for a special appearance or two, but a prolonged run could risk losing its novelty.

That said, Jelly Roll could still play a significant role in WWE, even if it isn’t a full-time wrestling career. He could continue making appearances, perhaps in key storylines where his involvement doesn’t require a heavy in-ring schedule. His presence could continue to build WWE’s entertainment factor, especially as a “special attraction” that fans are excited to see, without the pressure of a full-time wrestling commitment.

The Verdict:

Jelly Roll has shown that he has the heart, dedication, and respect for the wrestling business to succeed in WWE. While a full-time run might be a stretch, there’s no doubt that WWE fans would be excited to see him back in the ring for special appearances, or even a few more key matches. His story is one of perseverance, and in the world of wrestling, that’s something fans admire. Ultimately, Jelly Roll could carve out a lasting legacy in WWE — not necessarily as a full-time wrestler, but as someone who lived out his dream and helped elevate the company’s entertainment value with his unique blend of music and passion.