Since its founding in 1953, World Wrestling Entertainment has become a cornerstone of sports entertainment and a highlight of Monday nights while producing icons that have become household names, like Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson and John Cena. Over the years, the WWE has evolved into a worldwide phenomenon with a massive and loyal fan base.

In recent years, WWE’s popularity has surged. The company reported more than $1.7 billion in revenue in 2025, surpassing the Ultimate Fighting Championship. Its move to Netflix has further expanded its reach, drawing an average of over 3 million weekly viewers worldwide. This growth signifies WWE’s continued relevance after decades in an increasingly competitive industry.

Now, Chicago is taking part of the action. On February 28, 2026, WWE brought its high-stakes Elimination Chamber event to the United Center, marking the company’s return to the venue after a 32-year hiatus. The last time WWE held a major event at the arena was in 1994, making this comeback a significant moment for the organization and the city’s passionate wrestling fans.

The return of the Elimination Chamber to the United Center, the largest indoor arena in the United States, could be an indicator of more large-scale WWE events coming in the future.

For Chicago, the opportunity would be substantial. Major WWE events attract thousands of fans from across the country and around the world, driving tourism, boosting local businesses and reinforcing the city’s reputation as a premier destination for live entertainment. If this return proves successful, it could signal the beginning of a new era of WWE events in Chicago that boost the state’s economy and bring more electrifying experiences back to the city.