Seth Rollins Slams Bears' Indiana Move as 'Total PR Stunt'

WWE star calls potential relocation talks a publicity ploy, affirms team's future remains in Illinois.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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WWE superstar and Chicago Bears fan Seth Rollins has strongly criticized the speculation about the Bears relocating to Indiana, labeling the talk as a 'total PR stunt.' This controversy comes as the Bears seek $850 million in public funding to support infrastructure development around their proposed stadium site in Arlington Heights, Illinois, a move that could drastically shift the team's future and its connection to Chicago.

Why it matters

The potential relocation of the Bears from Illinois to Indiana has sparked a heated debate over the team's loyalty and identity. The move could have significant economic and cultural consequences for Illinois, which would lose one of its most prominent sports franchises.

The details

Although the Bears have committed $2 billion of private financing to develop the new stadium and plan to move after their lease at Soldier Field expires in 2033, Illinois state officials have not yet agreed to the funding. Meanwhile, Indiana has offered support to entice the franchise, intensifying the debate over the team's potential departure from Illinois.

  • The Bears acquired a 326-acre site in Arlington Heights in 2021.
  • The Bears' lease at Soldier Field expires in 2033.

The players

Seth Rollins

A WWE superstar and devoted Chicago Bears fan.

Caleb Williams

The Bears' current quarterback.

Ben Johnson

The Bears' current head coach.

Shannon Sharpe

A sports commentator who discussed the Bears' potential relocation with Seth Rollins.

Illinois state officials

State-level lawmakers and policymakers who have not yet agreed to the $850 million in public funding requested by the Bears.

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What they’re saying

“They've got a QB and a coach. You see, the modern NFL, that is the recipe for success… The Bears to win the North this year was huge.”

— Seth Rollins, WWE Superstar and Bears Superfan (Club Shay Shay)

“There's no way, c'mon. Can you imagine it, the Gary Bears? Come on. Get out of here. That's a PR stunt. There's no way… They're not leaving Illinois. There's no chance.”

— Seth Rollins, WWE Superstar and Bears Superfan (Club Shay Shay)

“They said that same thing about the Chiefs not leaving Missouri.”

— Shannon Sharpe, Sports Commentator (Club Shay Shay)

What’s next

Illinois legislators remain determined to prevent the Bears' relocation, understanding that the departure could hurt one of the state's major employers and revenue sources. The ongoing negotiations and political disputes over the team's future home will be closely watched by fans, lawmakers, and sports industry analysts as the 2033 Soldier Field lease deadline approaches.

The takeaway

This case highlights the broader tensions between state governments over the lucrative benefits professional sports franchises bring and the challenges teams face when negotiating stadium deals and financial incentives. The unfolding situation with the Bears' potential relocation will serve as a test case for how teams, fans, and local economies navigate these complex issues.