More Backstage Reaction And Information Regarding WWE's Return To Touring Reportedly Unveiled

WWE confirmed their return to live audiences and touring late last week, announcing a 25-city tour that will begin the weekend of Money In The Bank. 

The news, according to PWInsider, both was and wasn't a surprise to WWE Superstars and other officials. While the talent had not been given any sort of confirmation of dates or touring schedules prior to the official announcement, it had been informally spread through the locker-room that a plan for a return to live shows would be forthcoming. 

The report says that WWE deliberately kept plans regarding their return to touring close to the chest to avoid any potential leaks, and also in case they had to change at the last minute due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. 

It is believed that most, if not all, of the 25 dates will take place in markets where coronavirus regulations have begun to be relaxed. Florida and the Southwest is the most likely but the report also says Iowa and Pennsylvania are being considered too. 

Only three venues have actually been confirmed by WWE so far. The first return to a live audience will be on Friday 16 July at the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas. WWE Money In the Bank 2021 will then take place on Sunday 18 July at Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, before Monday Night Raw on 19 July at the American Airlines Arena in Dallas. 

Additional tour dates and venues will be confirmed in the coming weeks.