WWE isn’t backing off its blackout strategy — it’s expanding it. After stirring controversy in Las Vegas with strict watch party restrictions tied to WrestleMania 42, the company has now rolled out the same playbook in Chicago ahead of Elimination Chamber 2026. And local bars and venues are finding out the hard way.
According to FightfulSelect.com, WWE is actively blocking Elimination Chamber watch parties in the Chicago area as part of an effort to push more fans into the United Center on February 28. The report states:
“Elimination Chamber watch parties in the Chicago area also being blocked due to WWE’s new blackout rules in an effort to increase ticket sales.”
Translation? If you were planning to grab a drink and catch the show at a nearby bar, that option may not exist.
This mirrors what happened in Las Vegas for WrestleMania 42, where businesses within a 50-mile radius of Allegiant Stadium were prohibited from hosting public viewing events. That move reportedly left several establishments frustrated after they had already started organizing themed watch parties and promotional events. Now Chicago is next.
The strategy appears tied to WWE’s aggressive approach under its current domestic rights agreement with ESPN Unlimited and its international deal with Netflix. By tightening up public performance licensing and enforcing blackout zones, WWE is clearly prioritizing gate revenue for its biggest Premium Live Events.
And Elimination Chamber 2026 isn’t just another show. The card is stacked with CM Punk vs. Finn Bálor for the World Heavyweight Title, AJ Lee vs. Becky Lynch for the Women’s Intercontinental Championship, plus both men’s and women’s Elimination Chamber matches — making it a key stop on the Road to WrestleMania 42.
Still, the expanded blackout rules are raising eyebrows. While WWE wants fans inside the arena, local business owners are once again left on the outside looking in.
Is WWE smart to protect ticket sales at all costs, or is blocking watch parties hurting the overall event buzz? Please share your thoughts and feedback in the comment section below.
