The in-ring action wasn’t the only source of excitement at this year’s SummerSlam® in East Rutherford, N.J., as World Wrestling Entertainment® honored the one millionth fan to attend a WWE event at Continental Airlines Arena since 1984. The arena will hang a permanent commemorative banner from its rafters to mark the occasion.
Thomas Mezzacappa of Staten Island, N.Y., was the lucky fan to receive the honor. Recognized during the show, Mezzacappa also took home a replica WWE Championship belt signed by SummerSlam main event combatants John Cena® and Randy Orton™.
“Right now, I’m just in complete shock,” said Mezzacappa, adorned in a Triple H® T-shirt. “I never thought anything like this would ever happen to me.”
WWE has held more than 92 separate events in the arena, dating back to 1984. To honor the one million fans to have come through the turnstiles at Continental Airlines Arena, a permanent banner is being hung from the ceiling rafters, alongside banners paying tribute to the New Jersey Nets, Bruce Springsteen and others.
“WWE has been putting on events here since 1984. It’s a great history and it’s been an incredible run,” said Ron Vanderveen, Vice President and General Manager of Continental Airlines Arena. “[WWE] is the first family entertainment promoter that we have bestowed this honor to. Plus, it’s great to give back to fans that have provided WWE and this arena with their patronage over the years.”
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