WWE’s Decision to Run NXT at the 2300 Arena Surprises Talent

WWE’s decision to hold NXT at the iconic 2300 Arena in Philadelphia (formerly known as the ECW Arena) on November 6 has garnered a mixed internal reaction from the NXT roster and staff.

According to Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful Select, several sources within NXT were taken aback by the announcement. While some had heard whispers of the possibility, many dismissed the idea as being too unconventional. The choice of venue — steeped in the extreme legacy of ECW — is a bold move by WWE and signals an effort to tap into the nostalgic energy of wrestling fans who remember the grittiness of ECW’s glory days.

“Several sources within NXT that we spoke to were surprised by the announcement that the brand would be running the 2300 arena. Some had heard of it being a possibility, but dismissed it as being too out there.”

The 2300 Arena is a venue synonymous with extreme wrestling, and it’s evident WWE is looking to create a buzz by aligning NXT with that history. NXT, which recently moved to the CW Network, is continuing to elevate its profile, and booking a location with as much wrestling lore as the ECW Arena seems like a strategic attempt to maintain the momentum built from its recent move to the network.

Internally, some talents and staff viewed this move as a unique opportunity, while others were skeptical. The general sentiment is one of excitement mixed with curiosity about how the show will be received by the notoriously passionate Philadelphia wrestling crowd.

WWE announced that tickets for this special episode of NXT will be available starting October 22 on 2300arena.com, and the show will air live on the CW Network at 8 p.m. ET.