In a recent candid discussion, Eric Bischoff, former WCW President and WWE executive, disclosed that while he holds both Dean Malenko and Rey Mysterio in high regard, he personally found Malenko’s wrestling style more believable during their WCW Cruiserweight days — a statement that sparked interest across wrestling communities. Bischoff emphasized this was not a direct comparison of skill but rather his subjective preference based on in-ring aura and character presentation[1].
The Unique Appeal of Dean Malenko in WCW
Dean Malenko, often called “The Man of 1000 Holds,” earned a reputation as one of wrestling’s most technically gifted performers. According to Bischoff, Malenko carried himself differently from most high-flyers, exuding a deliberate, cold aura as he entered the ring that felt deeply authentic and compelling. This intensity, combined with his refined in-ring technique, made Malenko stand out as one of the most believable athletes of his era.
Bischoff stated:
“Dean made me believe. The minute he came through the curtain, he had this cold, deliberate aura long before stepping foot on the mat. His style was just so authentic.” [1]
This believability translated into a character that fans could instinctively accept not just as a performer but as a credible competitor, a priceless trait especially in a division showcasing rapid aerial maneuvers and dynamic entertainment. Bischoff admitted he preferred Malenko’s style over Rey’s, but clarified it was a matter of personal taste rather than a critique of Mysterio’s undeniable talent.
Rey Mysterio’s Iconic Status and Style in Context
Rey Mysterio Jr., a global wrestling icon and WWE Hall of Famer, revolutionized cruiserweight wrestling with his electrifying Lucha Libre style and charismatic masked persona. Bischoff praised Rey as a phenomenal performer, adding that Mysterio “most exceeded his expectations” during their shared WCW stint[5]. However, Bischoff also offered insight into the challenges Rey faced in connecting with the predominantly American WCW audience:
“…the American audience didn’t have the fascination with the mask and the cultural aspect that the Mexican fans did. You can’t see their face or emotion, and if you can’t see that, it’s hard to get sympathy for them.” [3]
This observation underlines the cultural nuances that impacted how Mysterio’s style was received. Bischoff’s attempt to push Rey to “feeling what he’s feeling” was a motivation to deepen Rey’s emotional connection with fans, even if it meant a shift from the stark mystique of his traditional character.
The Cruiserweight Division: A Fusion of Styles Changing Wrestling History
The WCW Cruiserweight division, starting around 1996, was a revolutionary hub that combined diverse wrestling styles from across the world — including Mexican Lucha Libre, Japanese strong style, and North American technical wrestling. Alongside Malenko and Mysterio, legends like Eddie Guerrero and Chris Jericho traded the Cruiserweight Championship, creating some of the most critically acclaimed matchups in wrestling history[4].
According to wrestling historians and insiders, the division expanded the wrestling audience’s appreciation for technical skill, storytelling, and agility, making stars that transcended weight class stereotypes. Malenko and Mysterio were both cornerstone talents in this landscape but brought distinctly different energy and appeal.
Backstage Perspectives and Wrestling Insider Insights
According to a WWE insider familiar with backstage conversations during the resurgence of cruiserweight wrestling,
“Bischoff always admired Malenko’s ability to craft a story through his ring presence and solid mat work. Rey was the high-flyer who could electrify the crowd, but Dean was the one who made the action feel ‘real’ in a hard-hitting sense. Both were essential to the division’s success but filled very different niches.”
The insider also noted that Bischoff’s comments were never intended to disparage Rey but to highlight how different wrestling styles strike varied chords with promoters and audiences alike.
Legacy and Fan Reception
Both Dean Malenko and Rey Mysterio continue to be celebrated by fans and critics. Malenko’s technical mastery and intense persona earned him the respect of peers and a devoted fanbase that appreciates wrestling craft. Mysterio’s impact as an innovator and cultural icon transcends the ring, influencing generations of wrestlers worldwide.
Wrestling fans still debate Bischoff’s personal preference in style, but most agree that the Cruiserweight division’s magic came from the vibrant contrast between Malenko’s methodical intensity and Mysterio’s acrobatic flair.
Final Thoughts
Eric Bischoff’s remarks provide valuable insight into how a wrestling executive evaluates talent beyond pure technical skill. Choosing Malenko’s believability over Mysterio’s charisma was a subjective but illuminating perspective that enriches the understanding of WCW’s golden cruiserweight era. While both men brought legendary quality to the squared circle, Bischoff’s praise reminds us that wrestling connects deeply when a performer can make audiences believe in their character as much as their moves.
In the words of Bischoff:
“Dean Malenko is still one of my all-time favorite performers. Everybody acknowledges how great he was, but in my eyes, he was just so damn believable.” [1]
These reflections only add to the rich tapestry of wrestling history forged by these two extraordinary athletes.
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