Credit: WWE.com
WWE Hall of Famer and longtime industry figure Eric Bischoff recently voiced strong disapproval of a controversial line delivered by Women’s Intercontinental Champion Becky Lynch during a promo on the August 25, 2025, episode of WWE Raw in Birmingham, England. The moment quickly ignited backlash from fans and even caught the attention of Ozzy Osbourne’s family, placing WWE in an awkward position behind the scenes.
Becky Lynch’s Promo Sparks Backlash Over Birmingham and Ozzy Osbourne Remark
During a heated exchange with Nikki Bella, Becky Lynch took aim at the city hosting the event, Birmingham, by saying:
“The only thing good that came outta here died a month ago.” She followed with, “But in fairness to Ozzy Osbourne, he had the good sense to move to L.A. Because if I lived in Birmingham, I’d die too.”
This direct jab upset many, including Kelly Osbourne, Ozzy’s daughter, who responded on social media condemning the comment as disrespectful. Kelly wrote:
“You are a disrespectful dirtbag! Birmingham would not piss on you if you were on fire. #birminghamforever Shame on the WWE for allowing such things to be said about my father and his home!!!”
The heat generated by this promo segment has reportedly embarrassed WWE officials, sparking internal discussions about the creative decision behind the line.
Eric Bischoff Calls the Line “Cheap Heat” That Went “Too Far, Too Soon”
On his popular 83 Weeks podcast, Eric Bischoff criticized the promo line for being poorly conceived and lacking meaningful payoff. Bischoff, known for his catchphrase “controversy creates cash,” stressed that while edgy promos are a wrestling staple, this particular remark felt like lazy, cheap heat that alienated fans rather than engaging them.
Bischoff questioned the writing process behind the line, asking rhetorically:
“Who wrote that? Did she have a writer? Did somebody not throw a flag? I wouldn’t want my talent to do that, whether I had a relationship with Ozzy or not.”
He elaborated that Ozzy Osbourne, given his legendary status and dedicated fanbase, should have been treated with more respect or at least handled with a more clever, thoughtful approach. According to Bischoff, the comment risked alienating fans who have a deep connection to Ozzy without offering a substantial narrative or character benefit in return. He challenged WWE to craft more creative and meaningful promos that earn their heat rather than rely on cheap shots.
WWE Considering Public Apology Amid Sensitive Fallout
Wrestling Observer’s Bryan Alvarez has reported that WWE is mulling the possibility of issuing a public apology over the controversial line, though skepticism remains about whether WWE will actually follow through given its mixed track record on addressing controversies formally.
A WWE insider told our sources backstage:
“Everyone recognizes the mistake. Becky’s segment was meant to fire up the crowd with local pride, but it backfired badly especially with the Osbourne family and regional fans. The company is weighing its options, but they don’t want to make the situation worse by overreacting.”
The Impact on Becky Lynch and WWE’s Creative Direction
Becky Lynch, as a top female star and multi-time champion, catches heavy scrutiny when delivering promos. While she is known for her fierce and sometimes biting persona, this incident highlights the fine line performers and writers must walk in avoiding unnecessary offense.
Sources close to WWE’s creative team reveal there has been increased sensitivity around promo content since WWE’s expansion into global markets and the scrutiny social media brings. As one source commented:
“It’s not just about shock value anymore promos need to be smarter and resonate without alienating significant fan groups. Becky’s line might’ve been meant to draw heat, but it felt out of place and tone-deaf.”
Wrestling Industry Reactions and The Role of Controversy
Eric Bischoff’s critique aligns with a growing sentiment among wrestling veterans that while controversy can boost ratings, it has to be balanced with creative integrity. Bischoff emphasized that cheap heat might gain initial attention but rarely adds long-term value to a character or storyline.
Given the stakes, WWE will likely reassess how such controversial lines are developed and vetted before airing, especially involving real-life figures beloved by fans.