The Genesis of WrestleMania 37: A Split for Success

WrestleMania 37, one of the most anticipated events in the wrestling calendar, was unique in its execution. This massive showdown was spread across two days, a move that may have seemed unusual but was rooted in a blend of practical necessity and strategic foresight.

The Backdrop of the Pandemic

The decision to split WrestleMania 37 into two days was primarily driven by the global health crisis caused by the Covid-19 Pandemic. In the early days of the outbreak, WWE and the State of Florida Health Department had to navigate the complexities of in-person events while ensuring the safety of everyone involved. This was a delicate balancing act, requiring strict protocols and limited on-site staff.

Matches and events needed to be cleaned extensively between shows, a process that was crucial but time-consuming. To mitigate this, WWE began airing segments of matches from other shows in between Raw and SmackDown. This creative solution was not well-received by Fox and USA, who were restricted to airing only a handful of pre-taped shows per year, typically during the Christmas holidays.

WrestleMania 37: A Monumental Event

WrestleMania 37 was more than just two nights of wrestling; it was a testament to WWE’s adaptability and innovation. Originally planned for a single day, the event was expanded to include two days, each ending with a cinematic spectacle. This extension of the event allowed WWE to make the most of the time available, transforming a 5-hour card into a 6-hour extravaganza that kept the audience engaged and enthused.

For comparison, the previous non-Covid PPVs (Pay-Per-View events) had been running longer as WWE adapted to the new normal. Even the Women’s Unification Match at WrestleMania 35, a highly anticipated event, didn’t start until after 1 a.m., indicating the length and scale of the event.

Strategic Considerations for WrestleMania 37

The decision to spread the event over two days was also influenced by the fan attendance and the desire to maintain an optimal crowd size. The Super Bowl LV at the same venue had a sparse attendance of only 25,000 fans, which was far from the capacity expected for a WrestleMania event. WWE didn’t want a similar scenario, where the arena looked underutilized and empty.

By deciding to split the event into two nights, WWE aimed to maximize financial returns and fan engagement. The strategy paid off, as WrestleMania 37 was a resounding success. Not only did WWE incorporate unique segments such as Bad Bunny’s surprise wrestling appearance, but they also delivered an impactful main event with Sasha Banks and Bianca Belair.

This success has cemented the precedent, and WWE has now embraced this format for future events. For instance, WrestleMania 39 in Dallas was also scheduled for two nights, demonstrating WWE’s confidence in the format. The plan is likely to continue for every subsequent major event, emphasizing the strategic benefits of a double-header format for the WWE.

Lessons from the Success of WrestleMania 37

The success of WrestleMania 37 offers valuable lessons for event organizers and content creators. The ability to adapt to changing circumstances, combining practical necessity with strategic foresight, and keeping the audience engaged are key factors in delivering a memorable experience.

Conclusion

WrestleMania 37 stands as a testament to WWE’s innovative approach to large-scale events. The decision to split the event into two nights was not out of the blue but was closely tied to the logistical and strategic challenges of the pandemic era. As WWE continues to host events, the success of WrestleMania 37 will likely influence the format and strategy for future premium live events.

Final Thoughts

While it is understandable for enthusiasts to have questions about significant events like WrestleMania 37, it is crucial to conduct preliminary research using reputable sources such as official WWE channels or reliable online platforms. For more information, you can visit the official WWE website or search on Google for detailed insights and updates.