On a recent episode of his podcast “Wise Choices”, WWE Hall of Famer Eric Bischoff shared his thoughts on AEW finalizing a new TV deal with Warner Bros. Discovery. This new agreement is coming into effect as their existing contract finishes by the end of this year.
Bischoff’s podcast covered the fresh AEW-WBD deal, which is set for four years: three-year commitment and a one-year extension option. The deal is worth roughly 0 million annually and will facilitate AEW to broadcast shows twice weekly on TBS, TNT, and TruTV.
He dismissed false claims in social media and Reddit threads that he predicted the downfall of AEW or the impossibility of them securing a new deal. On the contrary, he had suggested about a year ago that AEW would likely get a new contract.
The wrestling veteran did admit, however, that if Warner Brothers ended up with either Raw or Smackdown, it would be highly unlikely that AEW would continue on WB.
Regarding the prospect of AEW creating more content under the new contract, Bischoff expressed concern. He believes that unless AEW strengthens its creative infrastructure and talent management, it shouldn’t be pressured into producing more content.
Bischoff somewhat critically stated that AEW at this point lacks the intellectual and creative capacity to successfully execute this. While they may be able to churn out shows, unless they significantly change their approach, they risk losing more audience share.
The podcast episode includes his live reactions to AEW’s TV deal news.