WWEs WrestleMania 42 watch-party blackout policy in Las Vegas is already frustrating local businesses but now even ESPN isnt happy about the move either. WWE has already made it clear theyre not budging on restricting WrestleMania watch-party broadcasts within a 50-mile radius of Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. Bars and venues hoping to host commercial screenings have reportedly been shut down even if they were willing to pay licensing fees. Now, a new report suggests the frustration isnt just coming from local businesses. According to sports business journalist Blake Avignon on March 3, 2026, ESPN isnt a fan of TKOs restrictions on nearby venue broadcasts. One source characterized the policy as a direct misstep. The reasoning? WrestleMania thrives on FOMO and the blackout could be killing that effect instead of fueling it. In other words, instead of creating citywide momentum that spills into the stadium, the restriction may be limiting the natural hype cycle that big events depend on. The same source didnt stop there. They reportedly pointed to what they see as a bigger disconnect. For now, WWE appears firm on the blackout policy. But with local businesses frustrated and now reported unease from ESPN, the debate over whether the restriction helps or hurts WrestleManias overall impact is only getting louder. Do you think WWE is protecting its gate or unintentionally limiting its own buzz? Let us know where you stand. G Add as a preferred source on Google
