Ever since its inception, WrestleMania has been synonymous with grandiosity. Everything from the stacked card to the celebrity guests and the overall presentation has been larger than life. Understandably, attendance figures have been a focal point for both the WWE and its fans. However, it’s a well-known fact that these attendance figures are often inflated, sometimes to a greater extent than one might assume.
In 2019, a deep dive into WWE’s corporate website data revealed a stark contrast between the announced attendance figures and the actual paid attendance for WrestleMania 24-34. This discovery was only the tip of the iceberg, as several other reports have since emerged, highlighting the significant discrepancies between the two sets of figures.
Here are three instances where WWE inflated the WrestleMania attendance:
WrestleMania XXIV
WrestleMania XXIV unfolded at the Citrus Bowl in Orlando, Florida on March 30, 2008. The event showcased a mix of triumphs and tribulations, notably marred by a pyro malfunction that injured 40 individuals, as reported by Pro Wrestling Stories.
CM Punk emerged victorious in the Money in the Bank ladder match, while Floyd Mayweather’s clash with Big Show captivated audiences. The Undertaker extended his legendary WrestleMania streak by defeating Edge to claim the World Heavyweight Championship. The most poignant moment of the night belonged to Shawn Michaels, who delivered a heartfelt “I’m sorry, I love you” Sweet Chin Music to “retire” Ric Flair.
WrestleMania XXIV boasted an announced attendance of 74,635. However, according to Wrestlenomics’ data analysis, the actual paid attendance stood at 65,700, revealing a discrepancy of 8,935.
WrestleMania XXVII
WrestleMania XXVII is often remembered as the prelude to the “Once in a Lifetime” showdown between John Cena and The Rock at WrestleMania XXVIII, which, ironically, would repeat at WrestleMania 29.
Edge’s successful defense of the World Heavyweight Championship against Alberto Del Rio was overshadowed by his subsequent retirement due to a neck injury. Edge’s surprise return at the 2020 Royal Rumble remains a highlight for fans. The event also featured The Undertaker and Triple H’s brutal No Holds Barred match, amidst less well-received segments such as Michael Cole vs. Jerry Lawler and Snooki’s in-ring appearance.
WrestleMania XXVII reported an attendance of 71,617 at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta. However, Wrestlenomics’ analysis revealed a paid attendance of 62,600, indicating a discrepancy of 9,017.
WrestleMania 33
WrestleMania 33, dubbed “The Ultimate Thrill Ride,” was marked by highs and lows, much like a rollercoaster.
The Hardy Boyz made a triumphant return, winning the WWE “Raw” Tag Team Championship in a ladder match against Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson, Cesaro and Sheamus, and Enzo Amore and Big Cass. John Cena’s proposal to Nikki Bella and Seth Rollins’ victory over Triple H in a non-sanctioned match involving Stephanie McMahon go through a table were among the night’s memorable moments. The main event featured The Undertaker and Roman Reigns in a No Holds Barred match, with The Deadman’s emotional exit signaling his retirement, which would come three years later.
WrestleMania 33, held at Camping World Stadium (formerly the Citrus Bowl), announced an attendance of 75,245. However, Wrestlenomics’ data showed a paid attendance of 64,900, revealing an inflated figure of 10,345.
Kaira’s Insight:
While WrestleMania is celebrated as the pinnacle of sports entertainment, it is essential to acknowledge that the attendance figures provided by WWE may not always be accurate. As fans, our focus should lie on the spectacle and the performances rather than the numbers game. The dedication and passion of both the wrestlers and the fans are what truly make WrestleMania special.
