Eric Bischoff, WWE Hall of Famer and former WCW president, recently revealed the complex and evolving dynamics he shared with fellow WWE Hall of Famer Lex Luger during their time together in WCW. While the two are friends today, Bischoff did not shy away from discussing the challenges and tensions that marked their professional and personal interactions in the past.
Initial Reluctance to Sign Lex Luger
Bischoff has openly admitted that when Lex Luger became a free agent in 1995, he was initially reluctant to bring him back to WCW. According to Bischoff, the relationship with Luger had been strained for a variety of reasons—including Luger’s perceived arrogance and attitude. A key influence in changing Bischoff’s mind was Sting, who was a close friend of Luger’s. Sting persuaded Bischoff to reconsider signing the former WWE star.
Bischoff recounted to the JAXXON podcast that Sting told him, “Hey, Lex’s WWE contract is up. Would you be interested?” Bischoff responded with a flat “no” at first, but after Steve Borden (Sting’s real name) worked on him for weeks, Bischoff agreed to at least talk with Luger. To test Luger’s commitment, Bischoff structured a cautious contract offer at a significantly reduced salary, paying Luger $150,000 a year—down from his previous $750,000. Luger accepted these terms without hesitation, and Bischoff was impressed by Luger’s professionalism and determination to prove himself[2].
From Skepticism to Respect
Once Luger rejoined WCW, Bischoff noted how Luger’s work ethic and in-ring versatility exceeded expectations. Unlike many performers, Luger adapted seamlessly whether he was in a top-tier match or asked to play a supporting role. Bischoff praised Luger’s enthusiasm and ability to deliver at all levels, calling him “one of the more valuable talents on the roster” for that very reason[3].
Despite early reservations, Bischoff ultimately described bringing Lex back as one of his better decisions during his WCW tenure. This rebirth of Luger’s career in WCW showcased a side of the wrestler that Bischoff had perhaps underestimated, leading to mutual professional respect.
The Strain of Personal Tragedy and Fallout
However, their relationship later deteriorated, primarily due to the fallout surrounding the tragic passing of Miss Elizabeth, a figure deeply intertwined with Luger’s personal life. Bischoff revealed that though he was never particularly close to Elizabeth himself, his wife was friends with her, which made the situation more painful.
Bischoff expressed resentment towards Luger in the aftermath, saying he didn’t want “anything to do with him” and would avoid him at conventions, choosing to move away rather than share a room. This marked a significant cooling off as Bischoff grappled with emotions linked both to his personal connections and to his original biases about Luger[1].
A Friendship Restored Over Time
Despite these turbulent years, Bischoff emphasized that he and Luger are friends nowadays. Their bond, shaped by years of ups and downs, has grown stronger with time.
A WWE insider shared, “Eric and Lex’s relationship has been tested by both professional challenges and personal tragedies, but their mutual respect and shared history have helped them reconnect in recent years.” According to backstage sources close to both men, their friendship now serves as a reminder of how complicated and enduring relationships in professional wrestling can be behind the scenes.
Legacy and Hall of Fame Recognition
With Lex Luger recently announced as an inductee into the WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2025, Bischoff’s reflections resonate even more deeply. During an episode of the popular “83 Weeks” podcast, Bischoff expressed joy and pride in seeing Luger honored, noting that despite their complicated past, it was a meaningful moment for him personally and professionally[5].
He remarked on how Luger’s Hall of Fame induction not only celebrates his in-ring achievements but also symbolizes a journey of reconciliation and respect between two iconic figures in wrestling history.
In summary, Eric Bischoff’s candid reflections reveal a relationship with Lex Luger marked by initial skepticism, professional admiration, personal conflict, and eventual friendship—a testament to the complex human stories woven through the world of professional wrestling. As Luger’s Hall of Fame induction approaches, their story highlights how professional rivalry and personal trials can evolve into lasting respect and camaraderie.