WWE is reportedly preparing for a large-scale return to the Chinese market, with Hong Kong named as the candidate city to potentially host a Premium Live Event (PLE).

Insider reports indicate that decision-makers at WWE have been pushing for this expansion, going so far as to cite Hong Kong as a prime location where maximum worldwide viewership and market coverage could be achieved.

This is a strategic reorientation, as WWE had been targeting mainland China in the past, with previous events taking place in Shanghai and Shenzhen.

WWE Consolidates Presence in Asia

WWE visited China annually, hosting eight live events before the COVID-19 pandemic shut down global shows. From 2016 to 2019, the tours saw the best superstars, such as John Cena and Charlotte Flair, commanding high fan support throughout the region.

The timing for this hypothetical Hong Kong event closely correlates with the parent TKO Group's overall Asian expansion plans. According to SE Scoopsm, UFC, also owned by TKO, has been extremely busy in the region in 2024 and 2025, running events in Shanghai and Macau.

UFC also has a cutting-edge Performance Institute in Shanghai, established in 2019, which further improves its presence in Asia.

Why WWE Chose Hong Kong for its China Tour?

Having a PLE in Hong Kong would bring WWE its own set of advantages over mainland locations. Its status as a global business center, convenience of international broadcasting, and access to both Western and Asian markets make it a perfect platform for WWE to re-enter China, according to FightFul Select.

In addition, the move would allow WWE to reconnect with fans in one of the world's largest entertainment markets while expanding its influence in Asia's rapidly growing sports and entertainment sector.

Building on WWE's Past Success in China

WWE's earlier ventures in China went beyond live events. The company signed several Chinese athletes to developmental deals, strengthening its global talent pool and expanding representation. They also secured content distribution partnerships, ensuring that WWE programming reached millions of Chinese fans.

A re-entry, this one in the form of a Premium Live Event marquee in Hong Kong, would add to these with continued growth and new opportunities for merchandising, fan interaction, and long-term expansion.

Although WWE has not officially confirmed the event, the internal discussions suggest that serious plans are underway. With ongoing expansion across Europe, Australia, and the Middle East, returning to China would fill a critical gap in WWE's global touring schedule.

If finalized, Hong Kong could soon host one of WWE's most high-profile international events. That's a large market, and WWE needs to be more than prepared for the fans in the region.