Rikishi Criticizes High WWE Ticket Prices

WWE Hall of Famer Rikishi voiced sharp criticism of the rising cost of tickets to live events during a recent episode of his podcast, the Rikishi Fatu Off The Top, arguing that the prices have made professional wrestling inaccessible to many working-class families.

The former Intercontinental and tag team champion, who is under a WWE Legends contract, shared his frustration while reflecting on changes in the industry over the past year. He explained that even his status does not guarantee complimentary tickets for family or friends, a benefit he once took for granted. "You would think that family members and friends, close friends, you still have those comp tickets, but there is no comp tickets," Rikishi said. He added that securing discounts is possible but insufficient given current rates, estimating that a single ticket could still cost around $1,000 after any reduction.

Rikishi contrasted the situation with his performing days in the 1990s and early 2000s, when tickets were far more affordable. "Back in the day for us, man, you had tickets like 25, 50. I don't know, front row seat was 75 or something like that," he recalled. Today, he said, "you really got to hit the lottery...