The World Wrestling Federation (WWF) told a New Jersey court that its events are “entertainment exhibitions” rather than competitive sports, a move that could reshape professional wrestling. The company made the admission to strengthen its legal bid for deregulation and reduce state oversight.
WWF officials argued that the scripted matches and predetermined outcomes classify their shows as theatrical performances. Legal experts say the recognition could let the organisation bypass strict athletic commission rules, cutting insurance and operational costs.
Fans and critics reacted with surprise. Some see the admission as a blow to wrestling’s credibility, while others call it a pragmatic step for a business built on sport, drama, and spectacle.
What is WWF/WWE?
The World Wrestling Federation, now World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), stands as a global professional wrestling and entertainment company. Founded in 1953 as the Capitol Wrestling Corporation, it became WWF in the 1980s under Vince McMahon, who transformed wrestling from a regional sport into a worldwide entertainment phenomenon.
WWE combines athletic performance with scripted storylines, character-driven drama, and choreographed matches. This mix of sport and theatre has helped WWE dominate the professional wrestling industry for decades.
Where WWE stands today
Today, WWE operates as a publicly traded company with a global fanbase. It broadcasts weekly shows like Raw and SmackDown, hosts pay-per-view events such as WrestleMania, and streams content through WWE Network and other digital platforms. The company also produces films, merchandise, and social media content, cementing its place as a leading sports-entertainment brand.
Despite its reach, WWE faces scrutiny over performer health, creative decisions, and its classification as a sport. The New Jersey case illustrates WWE’s ongoing effort to maintain its entertainment-first identity while navigating regulation.
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