It's interesting how things can potentially change on a dime. After a Q1 earnings call where WWE management suggested they'd be touring by the end of 2021, a UFC event held at full capacity has, perhaps, shifted the outlook on things.
WWE held WrestleMania 37 with live fans in attendance this past month at Raymond James Stadium, and by most accounts it was a huge success. It was the first time that this many fans had been in attendance for a WWE event in over a year, but it wasn't a given that WWE was going to immediately move to doing these kinds of high-attendance events regularly.
Then UFC's event happened. The event took place this past Saturday in Jacksonville, Florida at the VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena. A little over 15,000 fans attended.
Popular Twitter account @WrestleVotes shared a report that talent and WWE officials took notice of the event and many behind the scenes believe WWE could fans back at their shows right now.
They write:
A major topic last night backstage at RAW was the packed house over the weekend at the UFC PPV. While not many superstars are advocating for 100% capacity, nearly everyone feels as tho live crowds could return in some form at this time.
Early speculation is that WWE would resume touring in July or August and SummerSlam would be the company's next big pay-per-view with fans.
What Does This Mean For WWE?
WWE may start testing bringing fans back to live events earlier than expected. It's not so much that those fans will enter the ThunderDome or that the WWE will eliminate the ThunderDome altogether, but WWE may try to hold an event or two in a different arena prior to their residency where the ThunderDome is located.
If there is more to report on this discussion as it develops, we'll be sure to update this story.