On a recent episode of his podcast, Eric Bischoff provided an eye-opening analysis of Chris Jericho’s actions in AEW, suggesting that Jericho isn’t simply going through the motions; he’s executing a calculated game plan that covers multiple outcomes.
The Observation: Chess, Not Checkers
Bischoff explained that he’s been watching Jericho’s moves for well over a year and believes they’re part of a masterful strategy:
“Chris is constantly playing chess. I kind of think I see what he’s doing, and I think he’s brilliant.”
In Bischoff’s view, every comment, every transformation, and every public appearance is less about spontaneity and more about positioning. Whether Jericho stays with AEW or moves on, the goal is to raise his stock.
The Nuanced Motives Behind the Moves
What exactly does “raising stock” look like in this context? Bischoff points out several layers:
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Contract leverage: With Jericho’s AEW contract nearing its end, Bischoff sees the actions as part of a negotiation play. By staying relevant and creating buzz, Jericho increases his value—either for a bigger deal in AEW or a high-profile exit.
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Physical transformation: Bischoff noted Jericho’s body change and suggested that, far from vanity, this shows commitment. “You’re drawing attention to your commitment to whatever it is you’re about to do next.”
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Public comments as positioning: Recent remarks where Jericho compared an AEW show unfavorably while praising another crowd were not dismissed as missteps; they were framed as deliberate commentary designed to stir interest and highlight Jericho’s awareness of his brand and environment.
Why This Matters for AEW, Jericho & Fans
This isn’t just backstage noise; it has real implications:
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For AEW: If Jericho stays, the company is getting a re-energised version of a wrestling veteran. If he leaves, they’ll face a major loss—but he leaves behind a legacy and potentially more attention to his former employer.
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For Jericho: He’s playing both sides of the ledger. Staying puts him in line for a legacy act within AEW; leaving could open new doors or bigger paydays elsewhere. By playing this “chess game”, he’s avoiding being cornered.
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For fans and the industry: What looks like promos or random comments might actually be part of a deeper strategy. This kind of wheeling and dealing changes how we interpret what wrestlers say and do.
The Big Questions Ahead
Now that the strategy is visible, several key questions remain:
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Will AEW meet Jericho’s perceived value demands?
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Does Jericho actually want to stay, or is the entire angle a build-up to a big exit?
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How will the audience react if his storyline shifts from in-ring competition to behind-the-scenes leverage?
Final Take
Eric Bischoff’s assessment suggests that Chris Jericho is operating more like a chess grandmaster than a wrestler booking his next fight. If his plan succeeds, both Jericho and AEW stand to benefit, though only one side knows what move they’ll make next. The board is set. The pieces are in motion. And whether you’re a fan of Jericho, AEW, or just wrestling narratives in general, you’ll want to watch the next few moves.
