Mark Shapiro: WWE Decisions Not Solely Profit-Driven

TKO released its third quarter 2026 financial results on Wednesday, showing WWE revenue decreased by 1 percent compared to the same period last year. The decline was attributed to fewer main roster premium live events along with reduced SummerSlam sales.

During the accompanying media call, TKO President Mark Shapiro addressed questions regarding lower ticket sales for both SummerSlam and WrestleMania. Shapiro dismissed concerns about declining WWE ticket sales, describing such notions as "ghosts." He explained that the company does not base every choice purely on maximizing profitability.

Shapiro emphasized the importance of returning to the Midwest, noting that Minnesota represents a strong market that performed extremely well in the stadium. He expressed pride in that outcome and added that engagement remains strong, viewership is strong, and overall business at WWE is good.