Eric Bischoff Warns AEW that TNA Is the Real Threat and Not WWE

Eric Bischoff is sounding the alarm for AEW, claiming that TNA, not WWE, is the real competition that AEW should be worried about.

During a recent episode of 83 Weeks, Bischoff gave TNA major props for its growing momentum, especially after its crossover with WWE, where NXT star Trick Williams defeated Joe Hendry to win the TNA World Championship.

Bischoff explained that TNA’s recent surge is not just about WWE’s involvement but also about the organic growth the company is seeing. He pointed out that AEW, which has been focused on WWE as its rival, should shift its attention to TNA before the smaller promotion gains even more ground.

“I think it’s cool, right? I don’t follow TNA—I’m aware of them through social media, and I try to keep up with any news coming out of there—but I’ve noticed over the last couple of months, there’s a lot of momentum with TNA.”

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Bischoff noted that a recent photo from a TNA show, possibly a pay-per-view or TV event, showcased an impressive crowd size that showed the company’s growth.

“I saw a shot from one of their recent shows—I don’t know if it was a pay-per-view or a TV show—but it looked to me like they were in front of four to five thousand people, just estimating from the photo that was online. They just… TNA appears to be gaining momentum.”

He went on to say that AEW might be underestimating TNA’s rise, suggesting that while AEW has its eyes on WWE, it could soon find itself outpaced by TNA if they’re not careful.

“And if I was AEW, I’d be much more concerned about TNA than I would be WWE. Because that’s your real competition. And if you’re not careful, AEW, you’re gonna find— instead of looking in your rearview mirror and seeing them coming up from behind—you’re going to be watching them pass you by. Because they’re gaining steam.”

One major endorsement Bischoff referenced was a subtle but significant moment involving Shawn Michaels, a WWE legend, holding the TNA World Title. He emphasized how this kind of cross-promotion is a strong signal to fans.

“This kind of thing with NXT—even something as subtle as Shawn Michaels holding up the title—that’s a hell of an endorsement. That’s a big endorsement to a very large segment of the audience that loves wrestling.”

According to Bischoff, this collaboration with WWE and TNA’s rising momentum should have AEW worried, as it’s becoming more than just a side story—it’s a real challenge to AEW’s position in the industry.

Please credit Ringside News if you use the above transcript in your publication.