It won’t be long before fans of professional wrestling flood Indianapolis for one of the sports-entertainment industry’s biggest events of the year.
A partnership between the Indiana Sports Corp and World Wrestling Entertainment is bringing the Royal Rumble to Lucas Oil Stadium on Feb. 1.
As many as 65,000 people are expected to attend the event, but even if you’re not into the whole wrestling thing, WWE’s presence will be felt throughout the city during the week leading up to the spectacle.
See local artwork
An art installation from local artist Kyng Rhodes, “The Circle City enters the rumble,” will be on display at the Indianapolis International Airport.
Artwork from JD Bills, known for his colorful and dynamic imagery, will be showcased in the Fountain Fletcher District next week. The piece is titled “Ringmasters 2025.”
Support local businesses
Small businesses, hotels and community partners can participate in a program that promotes special offers to Royal Rumble ticketholders. Fans who make purchases at participating stores will receive discounts and earn points toward prizes.
Businesses participating include Fountain Square Theatre, Tappers Arcade Bar and Upland Brewing.
Attend special events
Chreece and The Hangar Indy are teaming up to put on the Top Rope Tailgate, which is being billed as the ultimate viewing experience for wrestling fans, from 1-11:30 p.m. Feb. 1. The event will also feature live performances, DJ battles, rap battles, sign-making stations, custom merchandise and video games. The price of admission includes food and drinks.
Naptown All Pro-Wrestling, a local independent wrestling league, will host Nap Combat Crossroads, which will feature four straight days of art, music and wrestling.
The Indiana Pacers are having a WWE night Jan. 29 for a home game against the Detroit Pistons. Fans can score a Tyrese Haliburton WWE-themed bobblehead along with a game night ticket.
Look out for new signage
Downtown street signs, utility poles and skywalks will be adorned with WWE-themed art and banners.
On the horizon
Along with Royal Rumble, the city will host Wrestlemania and a two-night SummerSlam in the coming years as part of the agreement struck between WWE and the Indiana Sports Corp.
Peter Blanchard covers local government. Reach him at 317-605-4836 or [email protected]. Follow him on X @peterlblanchard.
