WRESTLEMANIA IN LAS VEGAS: THE ONLY TIME IT HAPPENED BEFORE 2025
WrestleMania 41 will mark the return of the biggest wrestling event to Las Vegas, a city famous for its nightlife, casinos and great shows. However, this will not be the first time that WWE takes WrestleMania to "Sin City". The only edition held in Vegas took place more than three decades ago, and its history is full of remarkable and controversial moments.
WRESTLEMANIA IX: "ANCIENT ROME" IN THE MIDDLE OF THE DESERT
On April 4, 1993, WWE held WrestleMania IX at Caesars Palace, a luxurious casino and resort in Las Vegas. Unlike the modern stadiums that usually host the event, this edition was held outdoors, in a themed environment inspired by Ancient Rome. The commentators, ring announcers and even the wrestlers entered dressed in Roman costumes, creating a unique aesthetic for the show.
THE CARD AND THE MOST MEMORABLE MOMENTS
Despite the impressive visuals, WrestleMania IX is not remembered as one of the best editions of the event. Some matches caught the attention, but what really stuck in the fans' memories was the controversial ending of the night.
Bret Hart (c) vs. Yokozuna – WWF Championship: Yokozuna defeated Bret Hart with the help of Mr. Fuji, becoming the new WWF champion. But the surprise came soon after...
Hulk Hogan and the controversial ending: After Yokozuna's victory, Hulk Hogan appeared to challenge the new champion. In less than a minute, Hogan defeated Yokozuna and became the new WWF Champion, ending the event unexpectedly and generating controversy among the fans.
WHY IS THIS WRESTLEMANIA SO REMEMBERED?
First outdoor WrestleMania – WWE would only hold outdoor events again years later, with WrestleMania 24.
Unusual aesthetic – The Roman theme made this edition visually unique.
The most controversial finish in history – Hogan's unannounced victory over Yokozuna was one of the most questionable moments of the era.
LAS VEGAS AND WRESTLEMANIA 41
Now, more than 30 years later, WrestleMania returns to Las Vegas, this time in grand style at Allegiant Stadium. Unlike the 1993 edition, WWE now has a much larger structure, packed stadiums and super cinematic productions. Will WrestleMania 41 bring moments as memorable or controversial as the 1993 edition?
Stay tuned for more curiosities and complete coverage of the road to WrestleMania!