Eric Bischoff may have been involved in the wrestling business for more than three decades, but he’s admitted that he’s actually not all that interested in the action in the ring.
Former WCW President Eric Bischoff has repeatedly spoken about the importance of good storytelling in wrestling. The theory being that without a good story, the action in the ring can fall flat as fans aren’t invested in the performers.
However, his latest admission will still come a surprise to many. Speaking on the latest edition of his 83 Weeks podcast, Bischoff explained that he believes that wrestling should be seen as entertainment first, and as a sport second.
Expanding on this point further, the WWE Hall of Famer stated that he’s actually not a big fan of the action inside the ropes, instead focusing more on the story around the actual wrestling.
“I’m going to get burned. I’m going to get crucified for what I’m about to say. But guess what? I don’t care. I’m just not that big of a fan of wrestling matches. I’m a big fan of the story and the way the show is architect-ed. Built. Formatted. Created. I’m a big fan of new ideas. Sometimes they work sometimes they don’t.”
Eric Bischoff began his career in wrestling back in 1986 where he worked for the AWA (American Wrestling Association) under the stewardship of Verne Gagne. He eventually moved to WCW in 1991 as an announcer before rising to become Senior Vice President in 1994.
Under his guidance WCW rose to become genuine competition to the WWF and following the creation of the nWo defeated Vince McMahon’s promotion in the ratings for 83 consecutive weeks. In the wake of WCW’s implosion and eventual sale to WWE, Bischoff enjoyed numerous stints with the sports entertainment giant both on-screen and behind the scenes.
H/t to SEScoops for the transcription.