It's not an exaggeration to say that, without this Maine city, the leader in professional wrestling would look much, much different today.

WBZN Old Town Maine logo
Get our free mobile app

Professional wrestling has changed drastically over the years. What began as a regional spectacle has evolved into a global phenomenon, largely thanks to WWE and its former CEO, Vince McMahon. McMahon popularized the concept of 'sports entertainment,' blending athleticism with storytelling. However, all of this was made possible by one pivotal show in Maine, which played a major role in launching McMahon’s rise to the top.

WWE Monday Night Raw In Las Vegas
Getty Images
loading...

So, how is that the case? How did a city in Maine influence the success of what would eventually become the WWE?

The Netflix documentary series ‘Mr. McMahon,’ released on September 25th, explores the life and career of Vince McMahon. It touches on the early days of his promoting career, starting when a young Vince worked for his father, Vince J. McMahon. He announced and commentated for his father’s regional wrestling TV shows, while also promoting events outside New York City. Vince’s first promotion assignment was in Maine, where his father sent him to organize a show.

WWE Superstars Promote WrestleMania XIX
Getty Images
loading...

Alright, which city in Maine did Vince McMahon choose to promote his first professional wrestling show?

Vince McMahon began his career promoting professional wrestling in Bangor in 1971. His father, who owned what would become WWE, sent him there to gain experience.

Credit: Canva / Getty Stock
Credit: Canva / Getty Stock
loading...

As depicted in the Netflix documentary series 'Mr. McMahon,' Bangor was a smaller market, making it an ideal place for McMahon to learn the ‘ropes’ without excessive pressure.

McMahon eventually took over his father's company and transformed it into the global powerhouse it is today, despite his father's desire to maintain a regional focus and avoid expansion.

The show in Bangor was a success, and by the sound of it, we can all thank the Queen City of the East—Bangor—for the eventual success of Vince McMahon and WWE as a whole.

Every WWE Pay-Per-View Event That Took Place in New England

WWE has hosted over 500 different pay-per-view events. Although in recent years they’ve transitioned to using the term ‘premium live event,’ these are all the shows that have taken place in New England.

Gallery Credit: Jordan Verge

REVEALED: Real Names of Current and Former WWE Superstars

Step between the ropes to test your knowledge of current and former WWE superstars. Can you guess the real names of these superstars of the squared circle?

Gallery Credit: Rob Carroll

WWE Superstars From New England

Some of the biggest local talents who went on to have success in the squared circle.

Gallery Credit: Jon Rineman

Which Frozen Pizza Brands Should Maine Shoppers Avoid?

Not all frozen pizzas are the same, and some are definitely better than others. A report by 24/7 Wall St. highlights six frozen pizza brands to avoid, based on factors like price, taste, quality, and health. If you're curious about which ones to skip, keep reading for the details. Mainers looking for a quick dinner might want to steer clear of these frozen pizzas!

More From WBZN Old Town Maine