The Corona Virus pandemic continues to affect the world of pro-wrestling. This is the first time that the biggest promotion in this business has now been forced to cancel the scheduled show on this Friday night, from the host arena.
WWE Wrestlemania 36 Could Be Cancelled Due To Corona Virus Outbreak?
As per the reports of PWInsider.com, WWE has reportedly nixed this week’s episode of SmackDown on FOX and 205 Live on WWE Network that was scheduled to be taped at the Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan. This comes as a direct effect of the Corona Virus as the government prohibits big gatherings unless it’s not extremely necessary.
Big Rumors On Paige Coming Back To Action On WWE Smackdown
BREAKING NEWS: @JohnCena will be on #SmackDown this Friday night!
What will the 16-time World Champion have to say in response to his #WrestleMania opponent?https://t.co/DR9nmxyXDw
— WWE (@WWE) March 11, 2020
WWE will now tape and broadcast both Friday Night SmackDown and 205 Live from the WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida. Last night’s episode of WWE NXT on the USA Network was also aired from the same venue. However, it should be noted that NXT taping for this week was scheduled at the WWE PC, a long time ago. Corona Virus outbreak does not have anything to do with it.
WWE Planning A Huge Six-Pack Challenge On Smackdown For Wrestlemania 36
Apparently, it is a last-minute decision that the WWE officials decided to move SmackDown to Orlando at the last minute. This can be considered as a drastic measure taken to following as Corona Virus outbreak continues across the United States of America. An official announcement regarding the change in the schedule will be coming soon.
There’s still no word whether the upcoming episode of Monday Night RAW will air from the PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as per the schedule. Multiple big appearances including Stone Cold Steve Austin and The Undertaker are booked for the flagship show.
*glass shatters*
Mark your calendars! On March 16, @steveaustinBSR will be LIVE on #RAW for #316Day!https://t.co/OINq7xE3G4
— WWE (@WWE) March 5, 2020
Without a doubt, Corona Virus has affected the world sports in a big way where football matches are being played in the empty arenas. Stephanie McMahon has released a recent statement saying that WrestleMania 36 will continue as per the schedule.
But WWE will have to monitor the situation and act accordingly for the safety of talent and fans. During a recent appearance on Cerrito Live, Jerry “The King” Lawler assured that WrestleMania 36 should not be affected by Corona Virus,
“I don’t think it’s gonna affect WrestleMania at all. I’m not trying to downplay it or anything like that. When you listen to what has happened in the past, it’s almost like a cycle. These kinds of things happen every now and then,” Lawler said. “There’s nothing you can do about it except react to it as best as we can.
“I can remember all these other types of influenza viruses. We’ve had just the regular flu come around every year that’s killed a bunch of people. You can get vaccinated for it. You can do whatever you can. Everybody tries to be as healthy as possible.” (courtesy wrestlingINC.com)
