The well-known WWE Hall of Famer Eric Bischoff, on an episode of his “83 Weeks” podcast, opened up about possible attempts by WCW to lure Sable, the comparatively simpler process of creating a two-hour program as opposed to a three-hour one, and more.
Notable excerpts from the podcast below:
On creating a two-hour program being less complex than a three-hour one: Bischoff asserted that it is undeniably simpler to ensure consistency and deliver high quality content in a two-hour format than a three-hour one. As per him, regardless of one’s favorite TV series, delivering three hours of it weekly, round the year, wouldn’t keep it in favor for long due to the strain it would create. He emphasized that the two-hour format, because of its easier production and better audience retention potential, could enhance the success of the show in the long run. While this might imply giving up some revenue, owing to one hour less of revenue-making opportunities, the long-term yield could be worth it.
On why WCW altered The Sandman’s entrance from his ECW version: The reason stems from standard practices. Bischoff states that smoking a cigarette during entrance, like Big Show did, wasn’t an issue. However, drinking alcohol couldn’t be passed by WCW and Turner Broadcasting’s standards and practices, even though it wasn’t an issue in WWE.
On the supposed discussions between WCW and Sable: Although it’s possible that other individuals might have spoken to her and Bischoff wasn’t privy, he himself didn’t have any dialogues with Rena Mero (Sable). He also stated that he was not sure if she was interested in joining, suspecting she may have just been stirring things up.