WWE is moving forward with plans for WrestleMania 36 in Tampa despite growing concerns and several confirmed cases of the coronavirus in the region.
According to a statement issued to ESPN, WWE has no plans to “cancel or postpone our upcoming events” in the area, which includes WrestleMania at Raymond James Stadium and a week of other live wrestling and community events like WWE Axxess.
“The health and safety of our fans, performers and employees are our top priorities and we are monitoring the situation closely with our partners and government officials in Tampa Bay. We remain committed to hosting WrestleMania at Raymond James Stadium on Sunday, April 5, and like other entertainment properties in the U.S., there are currently no plans to cancel or postpone our upcoming events.”
There have been at least two confirmed cases of Coronavirus (COVID-19) in the Tampa Bay area so far.
Related: Stephanie McMahon Addresses Coronavirus Concerns At WrestleMania 36
Last week, Stephanie McMahon and other WWE officials spoke with the Tampa Bay Times at a business luncheon about growing concerns over the coronavirus pandemic. McMahon said WWE puts the safety of their performers and fans first but they’ll act if it comes to that point.
“The health and safety of not only our fan base, but also our superstars, really does come first. We don’t want to put anyone in a bad situation ever, regardless of the circumstance. Those are not risks worth taking.”
McMahon added that the company will “enact those measures” if necessary. WWE Special Events EVP John Saboor also noted that the company is “constantly monitoring global events.”
The rest of the wrestling world has also started preparing for the disease’s effect on their respective schedules. Alex Shelley and Jordynne Grace are some of the wrestlers who have also canceled their own bookings overseas, with New Japan Pro-Wrestling canceling 11 total events this month amid concerns of the outbreak.
Related: New Japan Pro-Wrestling Cancels 11 Events In March Due To Coronavirus Outbreak
