Eric Bischoff, former WCW executive, recently expressed skepticism regarding WWE’s decision to host WrestleMania 43 in Saudi Arabia in 2027, a move announced by WWE Chief Content Officer Triple H on September 12. This will mark the first time WrestleMania is held outside Canada or the United States, stirring controversy among fans and wrestling insiders alike. Bischoff’s concerns, shared on the 83 Weeks podcast, reflect a broader debate about WWE’s direction and its connection to its traditional fan base amid the ongoing WrestleMania 43 Saudi Arabia controversy.
Bischoff criticized WWE’s increasing ticket prices under the new TKO ownership, warning that the company risks alienating long-term followers by making events less affordable for families. He contrasted this with the past under Vince McMahon’s leadership, where family-friendly pricing allowed parents to bring their children to shows, fostering a shared experience for generations of fans.
“I sound like a Vince McMahon agent here, but I would have voted with Vince on this one,” Bischoff stated. “I think you have to make a decision, in my opinion, to remain family-friendly in the context of making it affordable so parents can bring their kids, and it’s something that you can all enjoy together because there’s not a lot of that left.”
—Eric Bischoff, former WCW executive
Controversy surrounds WWE’s shifting WrestleMania venues
WWE’s recent announcements have fueled uncertainty about the event’s future locations. WrestleMania 42 was initially slated for Caesars Superdome in New Orleans on April 11-12, 2026, but was later moved to Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas for the second year running, now scheduled for April 18-19, 2026. Bischoff highlighted how such changes, especially taking WrestleMania 43 outside the U.S., challenge the event’s traditional identity.
He emphasized wrestling’s strong ties to American culture, noting that while the sport is global, its roots are uniquely American. Bischoff argued that holding such a landmark event abroad disrupts its accessibility and connection to U.S.-based fans, who form the core audience.
“I can relate to Vince’s concern. Professional wrestling truly is an American phenomenon. Yes, it’s taken place all over the world, blah blah blah blah, technically speaking, but it really is an American phenomenon. It’s uniquely American. And to take it outside of the country, Canada doesn’t count. It’s just like another state. It’s just a big state, but it’s another state, and it’s easily accessible by people in the United States, for the most part.”
—Eric Bischoff, former WCW executive
Fan backlash and implications for WWE’s future
The decision to hold WrestleMania 43 in Saudi Arabia has sparked widespread criticism among WWE’s fan base on social media platforms, where many expressed disappointment and frustration. Bischoff predicted that this venue choice could generate negative publicity and alienate part of the audience. He suggests that maintaining WWE’s family-friendly atmosphere and connection to its American roots might be crucial to preserving the event’s long-term appeal.
As WWE continues to evolve under TKO’s guidance following Vince McMahon’s resignation in January 2024 amid serious misconduct allegations, the handling of major events like WrestleMania 43 will remain under close scrutiny. Fans and industry watchers will be watching for how these changes impact both the company’s reputation and its ability to engage loyal followers worldwide.
