Eric Bischoff Responds to Fans Eager to Prove Him Wrong About AEW’s Media Deal
Eric Bischoff has been outspoken about his belief that AEW produces an inferior product, frequently arguing that its current business model is unsustainable. Consequently, the recent announcement of AEW’s new media rights deal with Warner Bros. Discovery, valued at over $170 million, has led fans to relish the opportunity to confront Bischoff regarding the company’s success.
“I challenge anyone to find a clip of me saying, in context, that they won’t get a deal … that’s never been said,” Bischoff stated during a recent episode of Wise Choices. “I have always believed that they would likely secure a new deal because wrestling is … very inexpensive.” While Bischoff has often criticized AEW for declining television ratings and live event attendance throughout its five-year history, he has also recognized the cost-effectiveness of professional wrestling, which he sees as a valuable asset in today’s shifting television landscape. “It never f***ing happened,” he emphasized.
AEW is still in negotiations, as the new deal lacks the exclusivity clauses of previous contracts, allowing the company to seek additional networks interested in airing its programming. While Warner Bros. Discovery is committed to broadcasting “AEW Dynamite” and “AEW Collision,” rumors suggest that “AEW Rampage” may find a new home on a FOX network, or that a new AEW show could replace it. FOX is actively searching for a Friday night wrestling program after the recent departure of “WWE SmackDown.”
