WWE Blocks Elimination Chamber Watch Parties in Chicago Area

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According to a report from Fightful Select, WWE has blocked watch parties for Saturday's Elimination Chamber event in the Chicago area in an effort to increase ticket sales for the big show at the United Center. This decision has reportedly caused frustration with local business owners who rely on these types of high-profile wrestling events to draw in large weekend crowds.

Why it matters

WWE's new domestic and international broadcast rights deals have led the company to take a more aggressive approach in enforcing public performance licenses, with the goal of maximizing gate revenue for its premium live events. This strategy could impact local businesses that have come to depend on the economic boost from hosting watch parties for WWE's biggest shows.

The details

Under the new broadcast agreements with ESPN and Netflix, WWE is cracking down on unauthorized watch parties in the Chicago area for this weekend's Elimination Chamber event. With over 14,000 tickets already distributed and premium seats still available, the company is aiming to sell as many tickets as possible to the live event.

• The Elimination Chamber pay-per-view is scheduled for this Saturday, February 25, 2026.

What’s next

With tickets still available, WWE will likely continue its efforts to maximize ticket sales and gate revenue for the Elimination Chamber event at the United Center this Saturday.