Refreshingly honest…
Jesse “The Body” Ventura was the wrestling commentator to “tell it like it is,” and “Grateful” definitely tells it like it is from the perspective of former World Championship Wrestling President, Eric Bischoff. This is a fantastic follow up to Bischoff “Controversy Creates Cash” (published in 2006). The book details the life and career of Bischoff, leading up to his WWE hall of fame induction in 2021. “Grateful” takes you behind the scenes and offers a refreshing look at the business of professional wrestling and creating and producing television shows.
Bischoff chronicles his business relationship and friendship with the immortal Hulk Hogan. “Grateful” opens the Pandora’s box on Bischoff’s experience working for TNA wrestling. What did Bischoff think of the TNA name? What was it like working for Dixie Carter? What was it like working with Vince Russo again? What did he think of the six-sided ring? How did TNA’s move to Monday nights come about? Bischoff pulls no punches and breaks down his daily routine with what he refers to as dysfunctional TNA and breaks down how his departure came about.
I truly appreciated Bischoff’s openness and honesty in discussing many issues in the book, such as the Chris Benoit tragedy, the creative process in TNA, his son Garett entering the wrestling business, the challenges associated with starting a brewing company, the many television projects involving his Bischoff Hervey Entertainment company, Vince McMahon’s departure from WWE under a cloud of controversy, and even admitting to “kinda getting lucky” with the New World Order faction in WCW.
In the book, Bischoff discusses his decision to file for bankruptcy, despite earning millions of dollars in this lucrative career. Bischoff shared his opinion of the wrestling product today, and what it is missing. Bischoff also looks back at his return to WWE, changing his opinion of Lex Luger and launching a successful podcast, and addresses the comments made by AEW boss Tony Khan. I have read many wrestling books, and I can honestly say this one of my favorites.
By: Eric Bischoff, Guy Evans
Narrated by: Calvin Sweers
Length: 6 hrs and 39 mins
Release date: 11-21-25
Publishers: WCWNitroBook.com