The 2024 edition of WWE Bad Blood marks the highly anticipated return of one of WWE’s most iconic events. Scheduled for Saturday, October 5, 2024, at the State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia, the event will celebrate the 27th anniversary of the very first Bad Blood, which took place in 1997 and introduced the legendary Hell in a Cell match. This year’s edition is the fourth in the event’s history, and the first since 2004, making it a special occasion for wrestling fans worldwide.

In addition to being a significant throwback, this year’s Bad Blood will feature a new twist: for the first time ever, the event will include wrestlers from both the Raw and SmackDown brands. Previously, the 2003 and 2004 events were exclusive to Raw, but now fans can expect a broader range of talent and matchups that draw from WWE’s entire roster.

A Return to WWE’s Roots

This year’s Bad Blood is significant in part because of its deep roots in WWE history. The first Bad Blood in 1997 saw the debut of the Hell in a Cell match, which has since become a defining feature of WWE pay-per-view events. That inaugural Hell in a Cell bout featured The Undertaker and Shawn Michaels, setting the stage for some of the most brutal and dramatic matches in wrestling history.

Now, 27 years later, Bad Blood 2024 serves as a tribute to WWE’s storied past while looking ahead to the future. The event’s return after a 20-year hiatus signals WWE’s commitment to revisiting its most beloved moments, giving both veteran fans and newer audiences something to look forward to.

A Dual-Brand Event

Another major change to this year’s Bad Blood is its status as a dual-brand event. Unlike the 2003 and 2004 editions, which were exclusively for Raw wrestlers, the 2024 event will feature stars from both the Raw and SmackDown rosters. This opens up the possibility for exciting inter-brand matchups, title defenses, and rivalries that span across WWE’s two biggest shows.

This shift in format not only makes the event more inclusive but also ensures that Bad Blood 2024 will have a diverse and action-packed lineup of matches. Fans can expect to see top champions, rising stars, and long-standing feuds come to a head in what is sure to be a thrilling night of wrestling.

Historic Timing and New Collaborations

One of the most intriguing aspects of Bad Blood 2024 is its timing. For the first time, WWE will be holding this event on the same night as an Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) pay-per-view. Since WWE and UFC merged under the TKO Group Holdings banner in September 2023, this is the first instance of both companies hosting major events on the same night.

To avoid direct competition with UFC 307, Bad Blood 2024 will have an earlier start time of 6:00 p.m. Eastern Time. This careful scheduling reflects the coordination between WWE and UFC under their new corporate partnership. Fans of both wrestling and mixed martial arts will now be able to enjoy both events without having to choose between the two, creating a unique crossover moment for the worlds of professional wrestling and MMA.

Star-Studded Hosts

Adding to the excitement of the event are its hosts: WWE Superstars Naomi, Bianca Belair, and Jade Cargill. Bianca Belair and Jade Cargill are the reigning WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions, and together with Naomi, they will bring star power, energy, and charisma to the night’s proceedings.

These three women have become fan favorites, known not only for their in-ring abilities but also for their magnetic personalities. Their involvement as hosts is a testament to WWE’s focus on elevating its women’s division and ensuring that female wrestlers play a central role in its major events.

Looking Ahead: Anticipation Builds for the Match Card

While the full match card for Bad Blood 2024 has not yet been revealed, speculation is running high among fans. Given the event’s history, there is no doubt that this year’s edition will feature a series of high-stakes matches, including title defenses, grudge matches, and perhaps even the return of the Hell in a Cell match that made the original event famous.

With wrestlers from both Raw and SmackDown in the mix, the possibilities are endless. Fans can expect to see the top champions defend their titles, while some of the most heated rivalries in WWE are likely to come to a head at Bad Blood. Whether it’s a hard-fought title match or a surprise appearance from a legendary wrestler, the event is sure to deliver unforgettable moments.

Streaming and Global Access

For the first time, Bad Blood will be accessible to fans not just via traditional pay-per-view but also through WWE’s livestreaming platforms. This modern approach allows viewers from around the world to tune in easily, ensuring that no one misses out on the action. Whether through WWE Network or other digital platforms, fans can watch the event live or catch up afterward with replays.

This increased accessibility is part of WWE’s broader strategy to expand its global reach, making it easier for fans everywhere to experience the thrill of a live wrestling event.

Conclusion

The return of WWE Bad Blood in 2024 is a momentous occasion for wrestling fans. Not only does it celebrate the legacy of one of WWE’s most iconic events, but it also introduces new elements that reflect the changing landscape of professional wrestling and sports entertainment. From the dual-brand format to the strategic collaboration with UFC, Bad Blood 2024 promises to be a night full of surprises, intense matches, and unforgettable moments. Make sure to tune in on October 5 to witness the historic return of Bad Blood.