Eric Bischoff: TNA Could Top AEW in a Year

Eric Bischoff Shares His Vision for TNA Wrestling’s Future

Eric Bischoff, a respected figure in the world of professional wrestling and a member of the WWE Hall of Fame, recently shared his thoughts on the future of TNA Wrestling. His insights were part of an interview on The Ariel Helwani Show, where he discussed the company's progress and potential.

Bischoff expressed admiration for TNA’s strategic approach to rebuilding its reputation within the industry. He noted that the company has been making smart decisions, focusing on steady growth rather than loud declarations of dominance. “They’re making a lot of smart decisions,” he said. “I remember when Carlos came on, they made an announcement when Carlos came on, and I was like, okay. We’ll see what happens. But they’re making a lot of — they’re growing incrementally, right? And they’re doing it almost quietly.”

He highlighted that TNA isn’t engaging in the same type of aggressive marketing that AEW used in its early days. “They’re not out there thumping their chests and talking about taking down the competition and all the crazy stuff that, for example, AEW did in the very beginning,” Bischoff explained. Instead, TNA is focusing on producing high-quality shows, bringing in top talent, and forming meaningful partnerships. “They’re just quietly going about their business, producing great shows, bringing in great talent, and getting involved with great partnerships. They’re growing their business. And that’s the part that excites me, watching a business grow, especially a wrestling business.”

A Potential Broadcast Deal Could Change Everything

One key factor that Bischoff believes could elevate TNA to a major player is securing a broadcast deal for their weekly show, TNA iMPACT. “They’re one deal away from being a major player,” he said. “If they get a broadcast partner, if they get the right broadcast situation, because they’ve got the product. They know what they’re doing. There’s a good team of people. They just need a bigger platform. And if they get it, watch them take off.”

Bischoff even went as far as suggesting that TNA could surpass AEW by this time next year, provided they land the right TV deal. “By this time next year,” he claimed. “I think so. Depends on a TV deal. If the TV deal isn’t a big one, damn near impossible. But what’s number two? By what revenue? By what measure do we define a number two? But I think in terms of television ratings, popularity, yeah, they could be number two in a minute.”

What Sets TNA Apart From AEW?

When asked what TNA is doing differently from AEW, Bischoff took the opportunity to critique the latter. “They’re just doing the basics,” he said. “They’re doing the basics and producing a show for the mainstream wrestling audience, not for that 10% hardcore sicko that everybody thinks is a cool demo, because it’s not.”

This comment suggests that Bischoff sees TNA as more focused on broad appeal, rather than catering exclusively to a niche fanbase. He believes that by maintaining a balance between quality content and accessibility, TNA could gain a wider audience and compete more effectively with AEW.

The Road Ahead for TNA

As TNA continues to build its brand and expand its reach, the support from figures like Eric Bischoff could play a significant role in shaping its future. With the right opportunities and strategic moves, the company may well position itself as a strong contender in the wrestling landscape.

Fans and industry observers alike are watching closely to see whether TNA can capitalize on these opportunities and achieve the growth that Bischoff predicts. Whether or not they surpass AEW in the coming year remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: TNA is on a path of steady development, and the potential for success is there.