The New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority (NJSEA) is set to provide $7.125 million in public funds to support WWE’s first two-day SummerSlam, scheduled for August 2-3, 2025, at East Rutherford’s MetLife Stadium. This move aligns with TKO Group Holdings’ strategy of securing significant site fees for major WWE and UFC events.
According to Brandon Thurston of WrestleNomics, the subsidy is the highest yet known for a WWE event in the U.S., excluding larger international government deals. NJSEA spokesperson Brian Aberback explained the allocation:
“The allocated funds will be used to offset the cost of a negotiated incentive fee that is based, in part, on the benefits of hosting this two-night event in New Jersey.” Aberback stated these benefits include an “estimated total economic impact of over $80 million and increased global visibility for the state and region.”
A WWE-commissioned study by Applied Analysis projects an $80.7 million economic return for the region from SummerSlam. According to NJSEA’s Resolution 2024-39, the funds for the event will be drawn from the “Coronavirus State Fiscal Recovery Fund.” The disbursement is subject to final approval by the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs.
