Eric Bischoff weighed in on AEWs recent multi-year TV deal with Warner Bros. Discovery, offering a mix of congratulations and caution on the latest episode of 83 Weeks.
Bischoff, a long-time figure in professional wrestling, expressed his skepticism about the future of AEWs programming under this new agreement, despite acknowledging the significance of the deal for Tony Khan and the company.
Reflecting on his initial reaction to the deal, Bischoff stated, I not only predicted that they would not get a deal with Warner Brothers Discovery, I suggested many times that they probably would. Ive also said that it wont make any difference, because the shows going to be what the show is. The deterioration of the audience is going to be what the deterioration has been.
Bischoff referenced recent data from Wrestlenomics Brandon Thurston, which highlighted the decline in AEWs audience and ticket sales. Despite the new deal, Bischoff believes that if Tony Khan doesnt adjust his approach, the problems AEW has faced in recent months will persist.
Its an opportunity. The important part now is, what does Tony do with it? Does he continue the way he has been and continue to hemorrhage audience and ticket sales? I dont know. Itll be interesting to see, Bischoff said.
Bischoff was quick to acknowledge that securing the deal was a victory for Tony Khan and AEW, adding, Im happy for Tony, number one. Its got to be a big load off his back. Im glad after seven months of teasing this Im glad it finally happened, and now lets see what they do with it.
When asked what he would do next if he were in Tony Khans shoes, Bischoff stressed the importance of boosting AEWs audience numbers, emphasizing that its essential for the companys future success.
Theres no more big stars to sign, theres no more hype. Theres no more game changer free agents that theyre going to be able to bring into the equation that are really going to matter. Because none of the previous ones have either, he remarked.
Bischoff didnt hold back when discussing AEWs recent signings, singling out Mercedes Mone as a disappointment. I mean, I think Mercedes has got to be one of the biggest financial miscalculations in terms of talent deals in the history of professional wrestling. The numbers have crashed since she showed up Her stock has gone so far down, Bischoff said.
While acknowledging AEWs achievement in landing the Warner Bros. Discovery deal, Bischoff remains skeptical about what the company will do moving forward, stressing that significant changes need to be made to reverse the current trend of audience decline.
What are your thoughts on Eric Bischoffs comments about AEWs new TV deal and Tony Khans next moves? L Please share your thoughts and feedback in the comment section below.
