As previously reported, this year's WrestleMania 42 in Las Vegas will not feature any watch parties, unlike in previous years. The broadcast distributor has informed several establishments in the Las Vegas area that they cannot show the event, even if they pay the licensing fee. This decision is attributed to a new policy implemented for businesses within 50 miles of the event, aimed at boosting ticket sales.
According to Fightful Select, a similar situation is occurring in Chicago next weekend for the 2026 WWE Elimination Chamber Premium Live Event (PLE). The report notes that watch parties in the arena are also being blocked from showing the PLE due to the new blackout rules. Once again, this policy is reportedly intended to increase ticket sales for the event.
Previous reports indicated that the restrictions on WrestleMania watch parties caused significant frustration, as some agreements had already been made and plans were in place. One would assume that there is similar disappointment regarding the Elimination Chamber PLE, although Fightful has yet to confirm this. It is also unclear if the blackout distance is the same 50 miles that applies to WrestleMania.
The WWE Elimination Chamber will take place on Saturday, February 28th, at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. It will be broadcast live on the ESPN Unlimited App in the U.S. and on Netflix internationally.
