A Hall of Famer believes WWE risks repeating one of wrestling’s biggest mistakes by continuing to expand The Bloodline storyline.
Speaking on 83 Weeks following SummerSlam, WWE Hall of Famer Eric Bischoff said The Bloodline remains one of the greatest stories ever told in professional wrestling, but warned that extending it for too long could ultimately damage its legacy.
“I believe it’s really one of the best stories that have ever been told in wrestling for a lot of different reasons.”
Bischoff compared the situation to his handling of the nWo during WCW’s boom period, admitting he weakened the faction by continually adding new members and creating multiple offshoots.
“Like the nWo, which yours truly nosedived by growing it too big… too many guys into it diluted the significance of it. Because I did that, because it’s so obvious, why is WWE doing the same thing?”
The former WCW President stressed that he is not against The Bloodline continuing, but believes WWE must either introduce a compelling new direction or bring the story to a natural conclusion.
“If they can come up with a compelling story that makes it feel new, I’m in. But if they keep doing what I did, which is riding it till it dies, people will reflect back on The Bloodline storyline and have a less favourable opinion of it.”
Bischoff compared the situation to an ageing boxer refusing to retire, arguing that great stories can lose their impact if they continue beyond their natural lifespan.
“If they don’t come up with a way to either make it more exciting and interesting… leave it alone. Come up with something fresh. Go a different direction.”
Eric Bischoff Praised WWE’s The Bloodline Storyline Despite Believing It Should Come To An End
Despite his criticism, Eric Bischoff praised WWE’s execution of The Bloodline angle and credited Paul Heyman as the driving force behind its success.
“Without Heyman, it wouldn’t have worked at all. He was the glue. He was the catalyst. He was the reason it all happened.”
He also singled out Sami Zayn‘s role in elevating the storyline, saying the former Honorary Uce took the faction to another level.
“Sami did such a phenomenal job. He made you believe… That’s what really made me engage in The Bloodline story.”
Bischoff concluded by praising The Bloodline for elevating multiple performers into bigger stars, describing it as one of the most successful long-term stories WWE has produced from both a creative and business perspective.
