The wrestling world was hit with shocking news on Thursday, as it broke that WrestleMania 42 will no longer happen in New Orleans, Louisiana. WrestleNomics dropped the initial news of the cancellation, but additional details have come out about the potential for a new location. "New" is relative as rumors are WrestleMania 42 is heading back to Las Vegas, Nevada.
Anthony Mcauley of NOLA.com reported that not only did WWE cancel the announced event in New Orleans, but the plan is for it to be moved back to Las Vegas, with New Orleans getting an upcoming Money in the Bank and additional events, potentially including an upcoming UFC PPV as well.
"After the success of this year's event [WrestleMania 41], the new leadership running WWE decided they would rather hold next year's event in Las Vegas and see what response they get from fans, according to an industry official who wasn't authorized to be quoted by name."
WrestleMania 41 was held on April 19 and 20 at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. WWE reported a total of 124,693 combined fans attended the two-night showcase, and set a new record for the largest WWE gate, which could be tied closely to the ever-increasing costs of live-event tickets.
Fans express frustration with the WWE and Endeavor
The news about WrestleMania 42 moving locations was met with immediate blowback online. Fans and media members alike took to social media to rail against the change, with many pointing out they were excited to attend the upcoming event when it was announced for New Orleans.
"TKO does it again," wrote Jonathan Coachman. "Looking to collect every dime they can get their hands on now they will even back out of an announcement of their biggest event due to a bigger check being put on the table."
WWE has not officially announced where the location would be. There was initial speculation that WrestleMania 42 could be moved to an international location like London. WWE has started to host more PLEs in foreign countries, such as the upcoming Crown Jewel set for Perth, Australia or the 2026 edition of the Royal Rumble which will occur in Saudi Arabia.
Since taking over the WWE in 2023, Endeavor's influence on the WWE continues to garner frustration for longtime fans. The overwhelming emphasis on celebrity involvement, viral moments, and revenue generation has pushed some fans away, even as the company generates record-breaking revenue in new ways. While WrestleMania 41 was seen as a commercial success, it was widely seen as a subpar show, especially due to the finish of the match between John Cena and Cody Rhodes.
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