As Philadelphia played host to the grand spectacle of WrestleMania XL, the event was not only a celebration of sports entertainment but also a testament to WWE’s dedication to community and charity. The event’s success was mirrored in the record-breaking numbers that highlighted its global appeal and economic boost to the city.
Make-A-Wish Foundation
WrestleMania is synonymous with high-octane entertainment, but it’s also a time when WWE intensifies its community support. This year, WWE Superstars hosted WWE’s longest Make-A-Wish experience of ALL TIME including:
- The Make-A-Wish Circle of Champions and tour of Philadelphia’s iconic landmarks
- The WWE / Make-A-Wish Philadelphia Phillies Day Takeover
- The Make-A-Wish takeover at WWE World
Boys and Girls Club of America
Additionally, the WWE Superstars, along with the Boys & Girls Club of America (BGCA) unveiled the brand new SuperSpaces club at the Caring People Alliance R.W. Brown Boys & Girls Club.
- The rebuild includes a newly renovated cafeteria and kitchen which will provide 150,000 meals annually and provide job training in the culinary arts and hospitality for years to come.
- During the unveal, WWE Superstars also announced five $5,000 scholarships for BGCA members.
Community Champions
On the road to WrestleMania XL, WWE selected three local non-profit organizations that support causes that are near and dear to Mayor Parker’s administration; YEAH Philly, The Lighthouse, and FLY:FWD.
Philly Sports Involvement
During the week of WrestleMania XL, Philadelphia counted on the participation from local sports teams including the Philadelphia Eagles, the Philadelphia Phillies, the Philadelphia Flyers, and the Philadelphia Union with activities that empowered youth with tools to foster respect and kindness, reinforcing WWE’s commitment to social responsibility.
Record-Breaking Success
WrestleMania XL was a monumental success for both Philadelphia and WWE. In fact, WrestleMania XL shattered multiple WWE records, becoming the most successful live event in the company’s history. The impressive attendance numbers were complemented by the fact that fans traveled from all corners of the globe to witness the spectacle, underscoring the universal appeal of WWE.
- GATE: WrestleMania XL broke the previous record set by WrestleMania 39 by 78 percent, with 145,298 in attendance at Lincoln Financial Field over two nights. The event drew fans from all 50 states and 64 countries worldwide.
- VIEWERSHIP: WrestleMania XL viewership was up 41 percent across both nights versus last year’s record-setting audience.
- MERCHANDISE: In partnership with Fanatics, merchandise sales were up more than 20 percent versus the previous record set at WrestleMania 39.
- FAN EVENT: WWE World at WrestleMania, in partnership with Fanatics Events, is now the highest-grossing and most-attended fan event in company history.
- SOCIAL: WrestleMania XL became the most socially viewed WrestleMania of all-time, with over 660 million views consumed over the two days. WWE’s YouTube channel saw its most-viewed day in channel history on WrestleMania XL Sunday with more than 67 million views in 24 hours.
- SMACKDOWN: Friday Night SmackDown at Wells Fargo Center drew the largest gate in SmackDown history.
- RAW: Monday Night Raw at Wells Fargo Center drew the largest gate in Raw history.
- NXT: Stand & Deliver was the most-attended NXT event ever with 16,545 in attendance at Wells Fargo Center.
WrestleMania was more than just a series of matches; it was a cultural phenomenon that brought together fans from around the world. The event’s charitable contributions to Philadelphia will leave a lasting legacy, while the record-breaking statistics serve as a testament to the enduring power and excitement of WWE. As we look back on WrestleMania 40, we’re reminded that WWE is not just about entertainment, but about making a positive impact on every community it touches.