A proposal calling on the Irish Government to explore bringing WrestleMania to Ireland has officially passed through Kilkenny County Council following a meeting on Monday.
The motion, brought forward by councillor Maurice Shortall, was agreed by all members of Kilkenny County Council and will now be formally sent to Government ministers and relevant State bodies as part of efforts to actively pursue hosting WrestleMania in Ireland.
What initially began as a local story first brought to you by KCLR quickly gained international attention after the story went viral online, with coverage appearing across a number of major news outlets — including Sports Illustrated.
Shortall’s motion calls on Peter Burke, Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, and Patrick O’Donovan, Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport, alongside agencies such as Fáilte Ireland and Sport Ireland, to examine the feasibility of Ireland hosting WWE’s flagship event.
Speaking to KCLR’s Shane O’Keeffe after Monday’s meeting, Shortall said the proposal received strong backing inside the chamber.
“The meeting went grand, the council just proposed it as it was. It will be sent to the ministers now, so it’s another step.”
The councillor has also appeared on The Wrestling Fan Wrestling Show Podcast to discuss the motion and the worldwide reaction it has generated among wrestling fans.
In his original proposal, Shortall described WrestleMania as “one of the world’s largest live entertainment and sporting spectacles” and believes Ireland is well positioned to make a serious bid.
“Ireland is well placed to present a credible and competitive bid for WrestleMania, given our strong international tourism brand, proven track record in hosting major events, and global reputation as a welcoming destination.”
While any event would likely take place in Dublin, Shortall has repeatedly highlighted the wider tourism and economic benefits counties like Kilkenny could enjoy through increased visitor numbers, overnight stays and international exposure.
With the motion now formally passed, the proposal will move to the next stage as ministers and tourism stakeholders consider Ireland’s capacity to host one of the world’s biggest entertainment events.
