This year, the excitement is brewing in Cleveland, Ohio as rumors swirl about the potential hosting of WWE’s annual extravaganza, SummerSlam, at the Cleveland Browns Stadium.
The Columbus Dispatch suggest that WWE is set to receive a substantial $1.676 million tax credit from the state of Ohio, as part of the state’s generous $44 million credit allocated for television and film productions in 2024.
While no official announcement has been made regarding a major WWE event in Ohio, speculations are rife that this tax credit could be linked to the buzz surrounding Cleveland’s bid to host SummerSlam. Fightful Select first reported in October last year that ‘The Forest City’ was emerging as the top contender to host the grand event dubbed “The Biggest Party of the Summer.”
Cleveland holds a special place in WWE’s history of hosting Premium Live Events. The city witnessed its first major WWE spectacle with SummerSlam 1996, featuring the iconic showdown between then-WWF Champion Shawn Michaels and Big Van Vader. Over the years, Cleveland has been the backdrop for memorable WWE events such as No Mercy 1999, Survivor Series 2004, Unforgiven 2008, and WWE TLC 2014.
Among the memorable moments was Fastlane 2019, where The Shield triumphed over formidable opponents Baron Corbin, Bobby Lashley, and Drew McIntyre in a thrilling six-man tag-team match. Notably, this marked the triumphant return of Roman Reigns following his inspiring victory over leukemia.
Adding to Cleveland’s WWE legacy are homegrown talents like The Miz and Johnny Gargano, both hailing from the city. While The Miz now resides in Los Angeles, his roots remain firmly planted in Cleveland, alongside fellow WWE star Johnny Gargano.
With the anticipation building and the possibility of SummerSlam gracing Cleveland’s Browns Stadium, WWE fans and citizens alike are eagerly awaiting confirmation of what could be a monumental event in the city’s history.
Where do you think SummerSlam should be hosted this year? Let us know in the comments below.