How much does it cost to host a pro wrestling show?
Hosting a pro wrestling show can be a thrilling experience for both the organizers and the audience. However, as with any event, it comes with a cost. In this article, we will provide a detailed breakdown of the expenses involved in hosting a pro wrestling show according to a west coast wrestling promoter, including the venue, equipment, insurance for your pro wrestling event, talent, and marketing costs.
Quick Note:
The figures used to estimate the going market rate are biased towards the East Coast of the United States and are exclusively figures from Mike Quackenbush who has years of experience in the indy and pro wrestling industry. Although tours have been organized in the Midwest and overseas, there may not be as much data available from those areas to arrive at an accurate dollar figure, and if there were they might be higher or lower then Mike’s figures. Either way, when working on pro wrestling events, it's essential to keep these regional differences in mind to ensure fair compensation for everyone involved as well but also be wise enough to negotiate partnerships and deals that give you the opportunity to turn a profit for your hard work.
Here’s a complete breakdown of a how much a pro wrestling show host costs:
1- Venue Costs
One of the biggest expenses when hosting a pro wrestling show is the venue cost. The cost of renting a venue depends on various factors, such as location, size, and amenities. The venue costs $2100 on an average or more, depending on the venue's size and location.
2- Equipment Costs
Another major expense is the equipment required for hosting a pro wrestling show. This includes items such as the wrestling ring, lighting, sound system, and video equipment. The cost of renting a wrestling ring can range from $500 to $3,000 per day. The lighting and sound system can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,500 per day, while the video equipment can range from $500 to $2,000 per day.
3- Talent Costs
The talent cost is another crucial factor in determining the overall cost of hosting a pro wrestling show. This includes the cost of hiring wrestlers, referees, announcers, and other support staff. The cost of hiring wrestlers can vary significantly, depending on their level of experience and popularity. A well-known wrestler can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000 per event. On an average, it costs around $3000 to hire a single wrestler..
4- Marketing Costs
Marketing is essential for promoting a pro wrestling show and attracting a large audience. The marketing cost includes expenses such as advertising, posters, flyers, and social media marketing. The cost of advertising in local newspapers or on radio and television can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. Meanwhile, the cost of posters and flyers can range from $100 to $500, and social media marketing can cost anywhere from $100 to $1,000.
5- Ring Costs
One of the most crucial components of any pro wrestling event is the wrestling ring. The ring is not just a platform for wrestlers to perform on, but also an essential safety feature. The cost of renting a wrestling ring can vary depending on its quality and size. A standard wrestling ring costs around $475 to $600 per ring round, depending on its features and the rental company.
6- Licensing
Another significant expense for pro wrestling events is licensing. A pro wrestling event must be properly licensed by a state athletic commission to ensure it complies with local regulations and safety standards. It only costs around $100 to get a “Promoter’s License” in order to stage a show.
7- Miscellaneous Costs (Insurance)
Aside from the expenses mentioned above, there are other miscellaneous costs involved in hosting a pro wrestling show. These can include expenses such as insurance, security, transportation, and refreshments. The video states that insurance costs are about $544 on average but we have seen that cost much less as of recently for event insurance. At ProWrestlingInsurance.com we typically see event insurance plans for about $100 - $300 per event on average. While having 6 security people for 4 hours can cost you $1200 or more flat, transportation costs depend on various factors, such as the distance between the venue and the wrestlers' location. A ringside physician is also a must have in case any accident happens on the ring, costs revolve around $300.
Finally, refreshments, such as food and drinks, can cost anywhere from $75 to $500, depending on the number of attendees.
8- Entrance way
Having an entrance way is an important aspect of your wrestling show. The cost for a rented Entrance way is around $270 - $300. Though, an entrance way can be built for around 3 times the rent cost.
In conclusion, the video arrives at a total of around $11,500 to $15000 to host a pro wrestling show but some promoters might argue that’s a bit high. The cost is really going to depend so many variables but hopefully this article at least gives you a bit of guidance if you are just starting out in the business.
FAQs:
Q1: Can I host a pro wrestling show in my backyard?
A1: While it's technically possible to host a pro wrestling show in your backyard, it's not advisable. Hosting a pro wrestling show requires specialized equipment and talent, which may not be available in a backyard setting. Moreover, hosting a pro wrestling show without proper permits and insurance can result in legal and financial liabilities.
Q2: How long does it take to organize a pro wrestling show?
A2: The time it takes to organize a pro wrestling show depends on various factors, such as the size of the event and the availability of talent and equipment. Typically, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months to organize a pro wrestling show.
Q3: How can I save money when hosting a pro wrestling show?
A3: There are several ways to save money when hosting a pro wrestling show, such as choosing a smaller venue, hiring less expensive talent, and other factors that you should negotiate when starting your new wrestling promotion.
