WWE News: Former Champion Says Superstars Believe ‘WrestleMania 36’ Is Going To Be Canceled
The novel coronavirus is causing havoc all around the world, leaving the fate of upcoming sporting events hanging in the balance. One such event, WrestleMania 36 is set to take place in Tampa in less than three weeks; but there has been much skepticism as to whether it will actually happen. As reported by Wrestle Talk, former WWE Intercontinental Champion Ryback says he has spoken to numerous superstars and they are of the belief that the event will end up being canceled.
A number of coronavirus cases have been confirmed in various counties in Florida. This prompted the Mayor of Tampa to call a meeting with city officials on Thursday to discuss possibly postponing or canceling upcoming major events, which would include WrestleMania 36.
There has been no official word from WWE as to whether the event will move forward as scheduled. Stephanie McMahon did recently say that health measures will be taken to ensure the safety of superstars, production crew, and fans alike.
Former WWE superstar Ryback recently addressed the situation on his podcast, saying he’s not so sure the pay-per-view event will take place. Ryback shared that he’s spoken to sources within the WWE who believe the organization will opt to postpone or cancel WrestleMania.
Ryback believes that WWE has enough time to “keep an eye” on the situation and make an educated decision. He went on to say that he’s spoken to some people behind the scenes and they are not optimistic.
“From a wrestler’s standpoint, [WrestleMania] is in Tampa and they’re gonna bring people from all over the world to this location. If I’m a wrestler – and I’m speaking from the talent as I’ve talked to a couple of people – the talent believe that WrestleMania is possibly going to get cancelled. This is a business and it will impact a lot of things but you have to protect the wrestlers at all costs.”
Leading up to WrestleMania 36 is a full week of activities that include a fan event called Axxess, the WWE Hall of Fame induction ceremony, and NXT TakeOver: Tampa.
Ryback feels as the talent should have to only show up for WrestleMania 36 and have no further contact with the fans or crowds. He went on to say that if the Hall of Fame ceremony goes on as planned, the talent should be kept away from the audience and that “there should be no fan interaction” at Axxess.
I asked a few sources about Mania & the Corona situation. Some had no info to relay. One said: “if it can go on as planned, it will”
Safe to say WWE just doesn’t know yet. All very fluid. All TBD.
— WrestleVotes (@WrestleVotes) March 11, 2020
