On a recent episode of his 83 Weeks podcast, Eric Bischoff offered an in-depth analysis of AEW’s recently announced residency at the historic 2300 Arena in Philadelphia — better known to longtime wrestling fans as the ECW Arena.
Bischoff, a former WCW President and WWE executive, praised AEW’s strategy from a business standpoint, citing several potential upsides. “What do I think about it? I think it’s probably a smart move for AEW, for a couple of reasons,” Bischoff said. “One is, yes… they can potentially… tap into… that nostalgic factor.”
He also pointed to production and financial efficiencies. “There’s also just the efficiencies, production efficiencies, cost efficiencies of not transporting stuff all over the country every week… that’s a really smart move… prudent is a good word. It’s a prudent move.”
However, Bischoff didn’t shy away from highlighting the inherent risks tied to such a legacy venue — especially one with deep emotional ties to a particular style and fanbase. “Do I think it’s risky… a little bit,” he admitted. “Because… whether you’re intentionally doing it or not… people are going to compare you [to ECW].”
He emphasized the burden of expectations that comes with operating in a venue so strongly associated with hardcore wrestling lore. “If you can meet or exceed their expectations — if they’re kind of expecting an ECW version of AEW — and you can do a good job of that, it can be great,” he said. “But it can also backfire. So we’ll find out — proof is in the pudding.”
AEW’s Philadelphia residency is part of a growing trend of promotions seeking stability and atmosphere by running frequent shows in historically rich venues. AEW has yet to announce full programming details for the 2300 Arena shows.
Stay tuned to PWMania.com for more on AEW’s Philadelphia plans and analysis from top industry voices.
(h/t to WrestlingNews.co for the transcription)
