WWE Scales Back Live Events: Cody Rhodes Weighs In

One big thing: WWE to reduce live events in 2025

TKO President Mark Shapiro announced WWE will cut its live events from about 250 in 2024 to close to 200 in 2025.

• This reduction aims to eliminate “marginally profitable events.”
• The move marks a significant shift in WWE’s touring strategy.

Why it matters

This change could impact wrestlers’ performance and the fan experience. WWE superstar Cody Rhodes shared his thoughts on the pros and cons of this decision.

Rhodes’ perspective

Pros:

• More time for rest and recovery
• Better nutrition and mental clarity
• Enhanced physical preparation

Cons:

• Fewer opportunities to improve wrestling skills in front of live audiences

Rhodes said: “I only get better at wrestling by wrestling. So, that’s a con for me.”

The bigger picture

• This change reflects a broader trend in sports entertainment, prioritizing quality over quantity.
• It may lead to more special, high-impact events in each city.
• Wrestlers might need to find alternative ways to maintain their skills and crowd connection.

What’s next

Rhodes plans to mitigate the reduction in live events by:
• Training at his Nightmare Factory
• Finding new ways to stay sharp without frequent house shows

The American Nightmare added: “I think the majority of the locker room and roster probably looks at it as a really great thing.”

How do you think this change will affect the quality of WWE shows and wrestler performance? Share your thoughts in the comments below.