WWE fans share passion

Sam's Town hosts monthly pay-per-view parties for wrestling devotees

There was a time when professional wrestling was considered a form of children's entertainment, but with the evolution of wrestling groups such as World Wrestling Entertainment, adult fans are flocking to watch the sport.

In an effort to cater to this set of fans, Sam's Town now is holding monthly WWE pay-per-view viewing parties. The event is free and includes a free hot dog, $1.50 well drinks and the benefit of watching the event with 500 of your closest friends.

"It costs nothing to participate; all that we ask is that you have a members' card," Sam's Town entertainment manager Krissy Ayon said. "It's a great value and service that we wanted to offer to our locals. Where else can you go watch a major event like this for free with people who are just as excited about it as you are?"

The WWE produces weekly shows that are aired on networks such as USA, ET and The CW, but more discriminating fans turn out for pay-per-view episodes.

"Those episodes tend to be a little higher production quality and a bit more raw in content," Sam's Town director of marketing Patrick Fitzgerald said.

According to Fitzgerald, hardcore WWE fans tend to really stand out because of their loyalty to the sport.

"I don't know that you would label it a subculture, but these fans definitely have their own culture," he said. "They live and breathe for the sport. But not all of our partygoers are that type of fan. There are plenty of people who come out and just enjoy watching the show and being around other people. We get all kinds."

Ashton Sweeney, 28, of North Las Vegas, said he grew up watching wrestling, and as the sport evolved, he grew with it.

"I was a huge fan when I was a kid," Sweeney said. "The storylines have changed now, they're more mature, and I think adult fans that were into the stuff when they were kids have just been able to grow with the sport. It's like a really violent soap opera for dudes. I love it."

Sweeney said that he finds the viewing parties at Sam's Town to be not just entertaining, but economical.

"You can go watch the show for free on a massive screen or pay like $40 at home," Sweeney said. "I'd much rather be around other fans and pay nothing. Just being around people who get your passion heightens the experience."

The next pay-per-view party will be held at 5 p.m. Jan. 6 in the Sam's Town Live concert room. No reservations are required, but patrons are encouraged to come early to ensure seating.

For more information, call 456-7777.