Reason Why WWE Canceled SummerSlam Weekend Comedy Roast
Well, that’s no joke — WWE’s planned Late Night SummerSlam comedy event has been officially canceled. But why?
The roast-style comedy show, originally scheduled for August 2 in Englewood, New Jersey and set to be hosted by stand-up comic Tony Hinchcliffe, has been quietly removed from WWE’s official event listings. Refunds are now being issued at the point of purchase.
According to WWE insiders, the cancellation wasn’t a last-minute surprise. One source close to the production cited logistical concerns, noting that the previous Hinchcliffe-led event during WrestleMania Weekend in Las Vegas had a built-in advantage due to its location.
“Vegas was easier for fans to get to — more central, more accessible,” the source explained. “New Jersey didn’t offer the same draw.”
Another factor? The lack of big-name buzz.
While Cody Rhodes was the only advertised WWE Superstar alongside Hinchcliffe, Paul Heyman—who stole the show with his biting roast performance in April—was notably absent from promotional materials.
“Without Heyman or other marquee names, there just wasn’t enough fan momentum,” an internal staffer added.
At this time, WWE has not made an official statement beyond processing ticket refunds, and it’s unclear whether the “Late Night” format will return at future events like WrestleMania 41.
SummerSlam 2025 is still set to go forward as planned of course, with a historic two-night event at MetLife Stadium on August 2 and 3.
(H/t: Jason Powell, ProWrestling.net)
🔍 MainEvent.News | Backstage Take:
WWE tried to expand its entertainment footprint with these edgy, roast-style comedy events — but this cancellation proves that timing, talent, and location all matter. While the Vegas experiment worked thanks to Paul Heyman’s star power and Sin City’s appeal, replicating that success in New Jersey without a strong supporting cast was always going to be an uphill battle. If WWE brings this format back, expect it to return during WrestleMania season — and with bigger names front and center.
