WWE Crown Jewel Spectacle Fuels Tourism Boom in Perth, Western Australia
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A surge in tourism and economic activity is anticipated in Western Australia as the World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) brings its Crown Jewel spectacle to Perth this weekend. Thousands of fans, including dedicated followers who have travelled from across the globe, are converging on the city for the three-day event, marking the first WWE event in Perth since 2018.
Wrestling Fans Flock to Perth for Crown Jewel
The excitement is palpable, with fans like Jarrod Richardson, a self-described wrestling super-fan, pressed up against metal barricades in anticipation. Richardson travelled from Sydney to secure a front-row view, having already invested a significant sum in tickets and merchandise. “Five of us bought tickets, we’ve spent $15,000,” he said, “And then about another four-grand on merchandise.”
Thousands attended a launch event Friday night in Perth’s Forrest Chase, signaling the start of the festivities. The event features a star-studded lineup, including Hollywood actor John Cena, alongside WWE superstars Roman Reigns, Cody Rhodes, Seth Rollins, Tiffany Stratton, AJ Styles, and Stephanie Vaquer. Australian wrestling powerhouses Rhea Ripley and Bronson Reed are also slated to compete.
Economic Impact: A $36 Million Boost Already Demonstrated
This isn’t Western Australia’s first experience with the economic benefits of hosting major WWE events. The WWE Elimination Chamber, held in Perth in February 2024, generated over $36 million for the state’s economy. Officials are optimistic that Crown Jewel will deliver a similar, if not greater, financial impact.
According to a recent statement, more than half of the attendees are travelling from outside of Western Australia, injecting millions of dollars into the local economy through accommodation, dining, and entertainment. The WA Minister for Tourism, Reece Whitby, emphasized the long-term benefits. “Any investment we make is confidential,” Whitby stated, “We want to be competitive in the future.” He added that the event’s profits are projected to exceed the government’s investment.
Perth’s Rising Profile as a Global Events Destination
The decision to host Crown Jewel in Perth was initially announced earlier this year during WrestleMania in Las Vegas, a globally recognized event that featured Cena. Whitby believes events like these are crucial for establishing Perth as a premier tourism destination, particularly within Southeast Asia. “We want to be the destination for big events in south-east Asia all the time,” he said.
Beyond the wrestling matches themselves, a range of activities are planned throughout Perth, including a WWE pop-up store in Murray Street Mall. Interactive experiences will be available at RAC Arena, and a pop-up Netflix Sports Club at Northbridge Brewing Company will offer WWE-inspired haircuts on Saturday and Sunday.
The enthusiasm extends to younger fans as well. Sixteen-year-old Olivia Nicolaides travelled from Melbourne, expressing her excitement to see Rhea Ripley in action. “I feel like I’m a really big fan, I really love Rhea Ripley,” she said. “She’s just so inspiring to me and I love her so much.”
The WWE Crown Jewel spectacle is not just a sporting event; it’s a significant economic driver and a testament to Perth’s growing appeal as a world-class destination for major events.
