On a recent episode of his “83 Weeks” podcast, WWE legend and Hall of Famer Eric Bischoff shared his thoughts on the new media rights deal between AEW and Warner Bros. Discovery.
The recent news in wrestling circles is that AEW has secured a multi-year multimedia agreement with Warner Bros. Discovery, a deal that, when considering all factors, is estimated to be valued at more than 0 million per year.
Here are some highpoints from the podcast:
On his reaction to AEW’s TV agreement with Warner Bros. Discovery, Bischoff said, “I have previously forecasted that they wouldn’t clinch a deal with Warner Brothers Discovery, but I also suggested on several occasions that they could quite possibly do so. I also pointed out that it won’t make any significant change because the show will remain as it is. The shrinking viewer base will continue to decline,” emphasizing the facts presented by Brandon Thurston and Wrestlenomics. Bischoff added, “Tony Khan should seize this opportunity and alter his approach to the industry. Sure, it’s a win and an opportunity. But the question is – what does Tony do with this? Will he press on with his current strategies and continue to lose audience and ticket sales?”
On what he’d suggest if he were in Tony Khan’s shoes, Bischoff said, “I would do everything in my power to increase the numbers. It’s simple logic. What this implies for the future? Time will tell. There are no more significant stars to sign, no more hype.” He also mentioned, “Signing Mercedes was one of the biggest financial miscalculations in professional wrestling history. The numbers have fallen since her arrival. Her value has plummeted, despite being a significant signing. It will be interesting to watch Tony’s next move. He has the deal he wanted. So, let’s wait and watch. I hope for the best.”
In the podcast, Eric Bischoff discusses further into AEW’s new TV deal.