Mark Shapiro Explains Two-Night WWE SummerSlam: We Prioritize Fan Experience And Profitability, They Are Not Mutually Exclusive Or Always In That Order

For the second straight year, WWE delivered two nights of SummerSlam. The annual summer event joined WrestleMania as a two-night event.

Speaking on the TKO earnings call, TKO President Mark Shapiro explained the reason behind running two nights of SummerSlam in Minnesota.

“The two-day show was extraordinary, backed by a sold-out corresponding WWE Fanfest, and delivered strong engagement metrics. Across TKO, we prioritize both the fan experience and improving profitability. They are not mutually exclusive, and they are not always in that order.

“We could have done SummerSlam on one night and likely had a higher ticket per cap, but in looking at that event, we chose two days because we thought it would be an overall fan experience, a better viewing experience on ESPN, more marketing for our brand on ESPN. We thought it was important to go back to the Midwest. Outside of Elimination Chamber in Chicago, we haven’t been doing enough of our PLEs in the Midwest. We prioritize both the fan experience and improving profitability. They are not mutually exclusive, and they are not always in that order.”

Fans can find Fightful’s coverage of WWE SummerSlam here. Check out the post-show podcast by clicking here. 

If you use any of the quotes above, please credit and link to the original source with a h/t and link back to Fightful for the transcription.