On a recent episode of his “83 Weeks” podcast, WWE Hall of Famer Eric Bischoff discussed his criticism of AEW, Kazuchika Okada’s post-NJPW future, and more.
You can check out some highlights from the podcast below:
On his criticism of AEW and spending too much time on it: “I don’t disagree. Sometimes I get a little nervous that we’re spending too much time talking about one thing or another, not just AEW. But here’s what I hope the audience understands, is that I want the show to be around for a long time, and I want it to serve a good purpose. Aside from entertaining our audience, I want it to provide a perspective that may or may not become valuable for someone. And I enjoy doing it. But we have to mix it up. Yes, we have to change our format from time to time, but it doesn’t mean we’re going to be talking about this type of thing every episode, right? We’ve got to kind of mix it up a little bit. So if you’re disappointed in the show because we’re talking about one subject too much, whether it’s AEW or anything else, you know, be patient because we’re trying to appeal to as many people as we can but also provide some granularity and detail and specificity when we get into the weeds about certain topics. And if AEW was controversial — well, It is what it is. If something is going on in WWE that becomes newsworthy and controversial, here it comes! We’ll do that, too. But right now, you know, go through social media. Topic du jour when it comes to what’s going to happen next is AEW.”
On where Okada goes: “Have no idea. Unless you really understand someone’s motivation — true motivation, not social media motivation. Because that can also be a kind of positioning and negotiating, right? I don’t know. Look, if the cat doesn’t want to leave Japan and wants to commute, it’s gonna make weekly television really difficult. If he’s not going to be able to make weekly television, then he’s not going to be involved in any kind of a well-structured story arc. So I don’t know that it makes sense for someone who doesn’t want to leave Japan but wants to work in the United States for a company that produces for weekly television. If it is true that he prefers to stay in Japan, then I think AEW is his only option. If he wants to wrestle in WrestleMania and doesn’t want to leave Japan, I say I have about as much chance of headlining Wrestlemania. You’re not going to be able to get to that level, if you’re not a part of the story, the programming, not being built and elevated. You’re not going to come into WWE, based on your success in New Japan Pro Wrestling and what they’ve seen of you, and being thrust into a position like that. It’s a commitment, a long-term commitment. So I — based on what I’ve heard, because I known nothing? Probably going to end up in AEW, is jumping into the grind in WWE if you don’t really want to move to the United States.”
In a recent episode of his “83 Weeks” podcast, WWE Hall of Famer Eric Bischoff shared his thoughts on various topics, including his criticism of All Elite Wrestling (AEW) and the future of Kazuchika Okada, a prominent wrestler from New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW).
Bischoff acknowledged that he sometimes spends too much time discussing certain subjects, not just AEW. However, he emphasized that he wants the podcast to be around for a long time and serve a valuable purpose. Apart from entertaining the audience, he aims to provide a perspective that may be beneficial to someone. While he enjoys discussing controversial topics like AEW, he also understands the need to diversify the content and cover other subjects. Bischoff assured listeners that the show will continue to mix it up and cater to a wide range of interests.
Regarding Kazuchika Okada’s future, Bischoff admitted that he doesn’t have a clear idea of where the talented wrestler will end up. He highlighted the importance of understanding Okada’s true motivations, rather than relying solely on social media speculation. If Okada prefers not to leave Japan and commute for work, it would pose challenges for him to participate in weekly television shows. In such a scenario, it might not make sense for him to join a company that produces content for weekly television. Bischoff suggested that if Okada wants to wrestle in WrestleMania without leaving Japan, his only option would likely be AEW. However, he also pointed out that achieving a top position in WWE requires a long-term commitment and involvement in their storylines and programming. Based on the limited information available, Bischoff speculated that Okada might ultimately end up in AEW if he doesn’t want to relocate to the United States.
The “83 Weeks” podcast provides wrestling fans with an inside look into the industry and offers Bischoff’s unique perspective as a former wrestling executive. While the show occasionally focuses on controversial topics like AEW, Bischoff aims to provide a well-rounded and informative experience for his audience. As the wrestling landscape continues to evolve, fans can expect the podcast to cover a wide range of subjects and provide valuable insights into the world of professional wrestling.