Sat Feb 07 01:10:00 UTC 2026: ### WWE Stars Voice Concerns Over Reduction in Live Events Post-TKO Acquisition

The Story:
WWE stars Cody Rhodes and Jey Uso have publicly expressed their concerns regarding the reduction in WWE live events, also known as house shows, following the acquisition by TKO Group Holdings in 2023. Speaking on Rhodes’ podcast, they noted the shift towards more brand-building opportunities like commercials and media appearances. While acknowledging the value of these endeavors, both wrestlers voiced a longing for the frequency of in-ring performance that live events provide, especially concerning the developmental opportunities for NXT stars.

Key Points:

  • Cody Rhodes and Jey Uso discussed the reduction of WWE live events on Rhodes’ podcast.
  • WWE has replaced some live events with brand-building opportunities.
  • Mark Shapiro, President and COO of TKO Group Holdings, stated that some live events were “marginally profitable.”
  • Rhodes pitched to WWE leadership the idea of adding at least one live event loop per month to improve camaraderie and provide more repetitions.
  • WWE is scheduled for only one house show, “Road to WrestleMania,” on Valentine’s Day in Lubbock, Texas.
  • An elderly fan interaction at a house show in Worcester, Mass., went viral, highlighting the unique fan experience of live events.

Critical Analysis:
The historical context provided emphasizes Cody Rhodes’s vocal stance on the importance of live events. The titles “[Sat Feb 07 01:10:00 UTC 2026] Cody Rhodes Explains Why He ‘Misses’ WWE Live Events” and “[Sat Feb 07 01:10:00 UTC 2026] Cody Rhodes Details His Pitch To WWE For Monthly House Shows” clearly suggest a consistent and persistent effort by Rhodes to advocate for increasing live event frequency. This demonstrates a pro-wrestler’s perspective is not merely a knee-jerk reaction, but a genuine concern for talent development and the overall WWE product given the shifting business strategies by TKO Group Holdings.

Key Takeaways:

  • WWE talent is publicly dissenting regarding the reduction of live events, signaling potential internal friction.
  • TKO Group Holdings is prioritizing profitability over some aspects of talent development and fan engagement.
  • Live events are seen as vital for in-ring development for main roster and NXT talent.
  • The reduction in live events may impact the wrestler’s connection with the WWE brand and fan engagement.
  • The value of live shows go beyond profitability, it creates unique moments for fans.

Impact Analysis:
The reduction in live events by TKO could have significant long-term implications for WWE. It potentially:

  • Hinders Talent Development: Fewer opportunities for in-ring practice could lead to a decline in the overall quality of matches and the preparedness of NXT call-ups.
  • Decreases Fan Engagement: Reducing live events limits opportunities for fans to experience WWE outside of televised shows, potentially impacting their connection to the product.
  • Affects Locker Room Morale: As highlighted by Rhodes, a reduction in shared experiences could damage the locker room camaraderie, leading to internal issues.
  • Shapes Future WWE Strategy: This event could lead to further adjustments in the WWE business strategy, with the potential for either a complete transition away from live shows or a return to a more balanced approach.

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