WWE: Wrestling fan delighted to be in the crowd for 'once in a lifetime' show in Belfast
Wrestling fans were treated to a night of non-stop action as a WWE show was televised for the very first time in Northern Ireland.
Thousands of fans descended on the SSE Arena in Belfast as WWE’s flagship programme, Monday Night Raw, was broadcast live across the world on Netflix.
Excitement had been building with tickets in high-demand after it was confirmed in September last year that the world’s largest wrestling promotion would be screening a live show for the first time in the province.
The landmark stop in Belfast was part of the WWE’s ‘Road to Royal Rumble’ tour which has seen wrestling stars also visit Germany, Scotland, Denmark, England, Poland and Belgium.
Wrestling fans here dressed up, made signs and made their voices heard during the live broadcast which saw favourites Finn Balor, CM Punk, Rey Mysterio, Becky Lynch, and others get between the ropes.
One of those who managed to be present was James Cochrane, who is also a DUP councillor for Bangor East and Donaghadee.
He said the whole occasion was “a dream come true” and how Belfast could potentially host a premium live event – outside of weekly shows RAW and SmackDown – in the future.
“Going to a regular house show every year was like your Christmas present but to actually have a live broadcast here on Netflix is a fantastic moment for professional wrestling in Northern Ireland.” he added.
"There was a real buzz outside and in the pavillion...never mind inside the arena.
"The crowd was chanting throughout and really getting into the matches. I think the number of young families there was great to see and there was likely many parents reliving their childhoods.
"I’ve been to London and Dublin to watch live events so it was great to watch something similar on my doorstep. I watch it every week on the television and it would be great for a premium live event to come to Belfast now.
"I don’t think that is out of the realms of possibility as I would imagine WWE will have been delighted with the attendance figures and how the night went.”
There had been plenty of criticism regarding admission prices for the event as some tickets were priced at around £500.
Whilst stating he was happy with how much he paid, Mr Cochrane, who outlined how Cody Rhodes is his favourite WWE star, had sympathy for those who couldn’t afford to go.
“I can understand the disappointment regarding some of the prices as we are currently in a cost-of-living crisis,” he explained.
"But I suppose prices are becoming higher regardless whether it’s sporting events or concerts.
"However, I do think Ticketmaster should perhaps have a cap in terms of ticket prices as I’m sure people missed out on a once-in-a-lifetime experienced.
"I was happy with what I paid but I can understand others out there wouldn’t have been.
"Monday night showed that wrestling is hot in Northern Ireland and it would be fantastic for WWE to broadcast another live show here as there’s a real appetite for it.”