When Does WrestleMania Start? Your Guide to the Biggest Night in Wrestling

WrestleMania, WWE’s flagship annual championship event, is more than just wrestling—it’s a cultural phenomenon that unites fans across generations. For superfans, knowing when WrestleMania starts is as important as the matches themselves. This year’s edition promises even more excitement, but timing remains the key factor in making sure you don’t miss the spectacle. Here’s everything you need to know about WrestleMania’s start time, how it’s announced, and why timing matters.

What Time Does WrestleMania Start?

Understanding the Context

WrestleMania typically kicks off in the late afternoon or early evening, with prime show times usually between 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM EST, depending on the location and broadcast schedule. For example:

WrestleMania 39 aired May 9–10, 2023, starting at 1:00 PM ET (ABC).
WrestleMania 40 is scheduled for April 6, 2025, with expected kickoff around 1:00 PM ET on ABC, followed by initial events beginning no later than 4:00 PM ET.

The exact start time can vary slightly each year based on broadcast logistics, regional time zones, and whether WrestleMania is tobacco-free (impacting sponsorships and timings).

How is WrestleMania’s Start Time Announced?

WrestleMania’s schedule is carefully locked in months ahead. WWE typically confirms the kickoff time and full show card through:

Official press releases issued 3–6 months before the event.
Network announcements (e.g., ABC for U.S. broadcasts).
Social media feeds and WWE.com with full showtimes, setlists, and kickoff segments.

Key Insights

Pro tip: Sign up for WWE’s daily emails or follow their social media to get real-time updates on start times—especially since last-minute schedule tweaks can happen due to weather, venue issues, or performance lengths.

Why Starting Time Matters for Wrestling Fans

WrestleMania draws millions of live viewers and a global online audience. Missing the start time means missing iconic moments—WWE legends debut, record-breaking matches unfold, and storylines peak. Additionally:

Time zone awareness ensures you don’t wake up early in the REM (for daytime matches).
Kickoff segments often feature hype videos, interviews, and surprises—essential pre-show energy.
Early start times let fans gather with friends, prepare games, or cue up shows early without rush.

Updated: WrestleMania 40 2025 Start Time Revealed

While WrestleMania 40’s exact kickoff date hasn’t fully landed in fan calendars yet, industry insiders and WWE announcements confirm:

Night Event Start: Approximately 8:00 PM–9:00 PM ET (prime primetime)
Kickoff & Build-Up: Begins as early as 6:00 PM ET with segments like “WrestleMania pre-shows” and athlete interviews

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Final Thoughts

Be sure to check WWE’s official log, sports news sites, and streaming platform schedules for the most accurate kickoff windows closer to the event.

Final Thoughts: Mark Your Calendar for WrestleMania

Knowing when WrestleMania starts isn’t just logistical—it’s emotional. The build-up, crowd energy, and world-class wrestling unfold best when timed right. Stay tuned, set your alarms, and prepare to witness history.

👉 Next WrestleMania edition: April 6, 2025 – get ready for a night that starts firmly in the evening—and stays epic from start to finish.

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