Tampa Bay Rays Respond After Hurricane Milton Tears Roof Off Former WWE Thunderdome Home Tropicana Field

Hurricane Milton has wreaked havoc as it made landfall in Florida on October 9, and its impact has been nothing short of devastating. Originally downgraded to a Category 5 storm earlier in the week, Milton still unleashed powerful winds and dangerous storm surges, particularly affecting Tropicana Field, a venue familiar to WWE fans.

Tropicana Field, which previously hosted WWE’s ThunderDome during the pandemic and this year’s Royal Rumble, sustained significant damage. Videos circulating on social media show parts of the roof being torn off by Milton’s relentless winds. The venue had been designated as a staging area for first responders, but with the damage, those plans have been disrupted.

In the wake of the destruction, the Tampa Bay Rays issued a statement expressing their heartbreak over the storm’s impact on the community and their home field:

“During the past couple weeks, our beloved city, region and state have been impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. We are devastated by the damage incurred by so many. Our priority is supporting our community and our staff. We are fortunate and grateful that no one was hurt by the damage to our ballpark last night. Over the coming days and weeks, we expect to be able to assess the true condition of Tropicana Field. In the meantime, we are working with law enforcement to secure the building. We ask for your patience at this time, and we encourage those who can to donate to organizations in our community that are assisting those directly impacted by these storms.”

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While Florida residents are facing widespread destruction, WWE’s NXT brand has also been impacted. With many NXT Superstars stranded in St. Louis following the October 8 episode at The Factory, travel complications caused by the storm forced WWE to postpone upcoming events. The safety of the performers and crew remains the top priority, and WWE is working to reschedule events as the situation stabilizes.

This storm has become a frightening and dangerous situation for many. We at Ringside News extend our heartfelt well-wishes to all affected by Hurricane Milton and encourage everyone in the region to stay safe.

Have you been affected by Hurricane Milton? What are your thoughts on the damage caused to Tropicana Field and the impact on WWE events? Feel free to share your experiences and comments below.