In an exciting turn of events, Tropicana Field, the home of the Tampa Bay Rays, is undergoing a remarkable transformation to host the WWE's prestigious Royal Rumble wrestling event. The last time the WWE was at Tropicana Field, it had the entire stadium to itself due to the pandemic. However, this time around, a spectacular setup is being put in place to accommodate a large audience under the tilted roof.

Organizers of the event have projected that the attendance for the Royal Rumble could potentially break records and become one of the largest in both event history and the stadium's sporting event history. The current records to beat include the Rays' inaugural game attendance of 45,369 on March 31, 1998, and the overall stadium record of 47,150 set during a New Kids on the Block concert on August 11, 1990.

Jim Previtera, the Rays' senior director of security and stadium operations, acknowledged that hosting such a massive event is an undertaking, particularly considering that it is taking place right before spring training and immediately after the successful Enchant Christmas event. However, Previtera expressed that hosting the WWE Royal Rumble is an opportunity that cannot be missed.

The Rays' involvement with WWE began when team officials were invited to attend last year's Royal Rumble show in San Antonio. Impressed with the spectacle and the enthusiastic crowd, the Rays saw this as a chance to increase exposure for the Tampa Bay area and downtown St. Petersburg as a host site for major non-baseball events. WWE data reveals that tickets have been sold to fans in all 50 states, several territories, and over 40 countries, proving the event's global appeal.

To accommodate the Royal Rumble, extensive preparation has been necessary. The playing field at Tropicana Field has been covered with plastic flooring and the mound has been lowered to ensure a proper setup. WWE has brought in a substantial crew of over 330 workers, along with 60 trucks and seven buses for logistics. The setup includes a 20-by-20 foot ring centered on the mound, with wrestlers making their entrances from the Rays' dugout, which will be largely covered by video boards. Additionally, the team store will be transformed into a WWE merchandise outlet.

Coordinating various logistics has been a major task as well. The Rays have collaborated with multiple agencies to ensure smooth traffic flow, implemented highway signage, developed parking plans, and increased SunRunner bus services. Nearby restaurants and bars have also been informed to expect large crowds both before and after the event.

The Royal Rumble, one of WWE's premier events, features 30-wrestler men's and women's rumbles. The matches are known for surprise and celebrity entrants, with the potential for appearances by wrestling icon Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson. The event will be streamed on Peacock, WWE's streaming service.

With the WWE's arrival at Tropicana Field, anticipation is building for a monumental and electrifying event. The Rays organization, from top officials to former and current players, has shown support and involvement throughout the planning process. This event not only promises an incredible spectacle but also serves as an opportunity to showcase the Tampa Bay area as a hub for major non-baseball events.

As doors open at 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, fans can expect a remarkable night of wrestling entertainment within the transformed Tropicana Field.