With the Coronavirus a legitimate threat to people’s health, it’s been reported by PWInsider Mike Johnson through prowrestlingnet.com that Friday Night Smackdown has been moved to the WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida.
This does not appear to be the case as the WWE released a statement to prowrestlingsheet.com that states:
“WWE has not cancelled Friday Night SmackDown in Detroit, however, based on the current situation, we are putting contingency plans in place in the event that upcoming WWE shows are cancelled by government officials, civil authorities and/or local venues.”
Contingencies are needed
While the story of Smackdown being moved to the WWE Performance Center ran rampant, it’s important to understand that as of now, this is merely a contingency plan Vince McMahon and the WWE are reportedly considering.
It makes sense given we’ll find out later today if WrestleMania will be canceled or postponed in Tampa Bay amid fear of spreading the Coronavirus.
It’s also a legitimate concern considering the NBA suspended the remainder of their season indefinitely yesterday, and other organizations like NCAA are reportedly holding their March Madness in arenas without fans.
With the number of positively tested individuals seemingly increasing hourly, it’s important we remain vigilant while trying to remain calm and not panic or jump to conclusions.
Vince McMahon has made similar decisions before
It’s easy to second guess any decision that’s made by Vince McMahon or others during this time. And while justified, there is always a method to his madness.
Following the 9/11 attacks, a majority of major events and sports like the NFL shut down for that week. The whole country was in a state of fear, frustration, and confusion over what should be done. Some of those debates continue to rage today.
Two days later on the Thursday following the terrorist attacks, McMahon decided that Smackdown would air. While he touted it as the first major public grouping or meeting since the attack (this is disputed and may be just his pride talking), it was a first step for many to returning to normalcy.
While there is no way the two can be compared, there’s an underlying fear among many that may be considered similar and McMahon may use this as an opportunity, with precautions in place, to encourage people that life will go on in some way.
Whether right or wrong, he’s never missed an opportunity to speak his mind or pat himself on the back, and this could be another one of those times.
There’s no denying that whatever decision he makes he’ll be criticized for it, but he’ll also be praised. Where do you stand on this? Should Smackdown be moved or remain in Detroit?
SUBSCRIBE NOW: Get TheOvertimer’s Hottest Stories, Breaking News and Special Features in your email, CLICK HERE!
