WWE SmackDown’s upcoming September 5 show at the Allstate Arena in Chicago has generated exceptional ticket sales, reaching 16,031 tickets distributed, signaling a surge fueled by speculation over AJ Lee’s return after a ten-year absence. These figures surpass previous events, setting a new standard for the venue and the year.
Compared to the April SmackDown held at the same location, which attracted 15,818 attendees, the current event demonstrates a notable increase. The 16,031 tickets distributed exceed WWE’s 2025 average SmackDown attendance of 11,352 across all venues, reflecting heightened demand and interest for this particular edition.
Demand Pushes Prices Higher and Expands Venue Capacity
Fans eager to attend the event have faced rising ticket prices and limited availability. Standard admissions have mostly sold out, leaving only floor seats at a premium price starting from $1,327.20. The total ticket sales have translated into an estimated gate revenue of approximately $2.3 million.
To address the overwhelming demand, WWE opened additional seating in sections 206 and 207, expanding the arena setup to a capacity of 16,046, with only 15 tickets remaining for purchase. This nearly complete sellout underlines the strong anticipation among Chicago wrestling fans, who are prepared to pay top dollar to witness what they expect to be a monumental show.
“WWE Friday Night SmackdownFri • Sep 05, 2025 • 6:30 PMAllstate Arena, Rosemont, ILAvailable Tickets: 15Current Setup: 16,046Tickets Distributed: 16,031📈 +265 since the last update (1 day ago)🗒️ Sections 206 & 207 have now been fully opened. Based on the current setup…” — WrestleTix
Speculation Surrounding AJ Lee’s Possible Return Spurs Interest
The sharp increase in ticket sales coincides directly with rumors hinting at AJ Lee’s WWE comeback. After retiring in April 2015, shortly following her husband CM Punk’s departure, AJ Lee has been absent from the WWE scene for ten years. Wrestling news sources like Wrestling Observer and Fightful have reported insider expectations of her returning soon.
Interest in Lee’s potential reappearance has grown since CM Punk’s WWE return in November 2023. This speculation gained additional momentum after WWE’s Clash in Paris event, where Becky Lynch intervened to help her husband Seth Rollins retain the World Heavyweight Championship against Punk. Industry insiders have suggested a mixed tag match is planned for the upcoming Wrestlepalooza on September 20, featuring Punk and Lee against Rollins and Lynch.
Fan Reactions Reflect Both Excitement and Surprise at Ticket Prices
The combination of AJ Lee’s rumored return and the record-setting ticket prices has sparked varied reactions among fans. Some expressed disbelief at the high cost, surprised by prices soaring for a weekly televised show. Meanwhile, others felt grateful for securing tickets, anticipating a historic event.
One fan shared their excitement, stating their intention to witness Cena’s final Chicago appearance alongside what could be AJ Lee’s comeback, attributing their enthusiasm to the “wrestling gods.”
“The wrestling gods knew I couldn’t miss Cena’s last show in Chicago and AJ Lee’s return.” — Fan
Another fan responded humorously to the soaring prices by posting a GIF, illustrating their frustration in a lighthearted manner.
WWE’s Hints and Industry Expectations Build Anticipation
WWE briefly fueled comeback rumors by briefly listing AJ Lee merchandise on their Shop platform before swiftly removing it, leaving fans eager but uncertain. While no official confirmation has been made about Lee’s appearance at the Chicago SmackDown, multiple wrestling journalists and insiders anticipate a major announcement during the broadcast.
The unprecedented ticket sales clearly indicate WWE’s intent to deliver a significant show in Chicago, with Lee’s return being a central factor driving fan enthusiasm and premium demand.
