As a devoted fan of professional wrestling and pop culture, attending the Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo (C2E2) was an exhilarating experience. Held annually at McCormick Place South in the heart of Chicago, C2E2 brings together enthusiasts from all walks of life. From comic books to anime, gaming to cosplay, and of course, wrestling, this convention celebrates the diverse tapestry of fandoms.
Wrestling Fans Everywhere
From the moment I stepped into the bustling convention center, I was surrounded by fellow wrestling aficionados. Their passion was palpable, and the energy was contagious. Whether clad in championship belts or adorned with iconic wrestling T-shirts, fans reveled in their shared love for the squared circle.
Exhibitors and Wrestling Content
The convention floor was a treasure trove for wrestling enthusiasts. Exhibitors showcased an array of professional wrestling content:
Artwork: Talented artists captured the essence of wrestling legends on canvas. Portraits of Stone Cold Steve Austin, The Rock, and Becky Lynch adorned booth walls, inviting fans to appreciate the fusion of athleticism and artistry.
Action Figures: Rows of meticulously crafted action figures lined the shelves. From classic WWE superstars to indie darlings, these collectibles allowed fans to relive epic battles in miniature form.
Meet and Greets: Wrestling icons graced the convention, offering fans the chance to meet their heroes up close from both TNA & AEW. The line for Sting’s autograph stretched around the corner, a testament to his enduring legacy.
Panels: Engaging discussions explored the intersection of wrestling and pop culture. From analyzing storylines to dissecting the psychology of wrestling, these panels provided intellectual nourishment for die-hard fans.
Cosplay: A Tribute to Legends
Cosplayers transformed into living tributes to wrestling icons. Among the sea of costumes, I spotted:
Hulk Hogan: His trademark mustache and bandana were unmistakable.
Randy Savage: Ooh yeah! The Macho Man strutted through the halls, complete with colorful robes and oversized sunglasses.
John Cena: Fans chanted “You can’t see me!” as a spot-on Cena posed for photos.
Sting: The enigmatic vigilante, clad in black and white, was the main attraction. His photo ops were a hot commodity.
Erick Gutierrez: The Artist Behind the Canvas
During my media coverage, I had the privilege of meeting Erick Gutierrez. His Instagram handle, @therealErickG, buzzed with excitement. Erick’s immense talent lay in capturing wrestlers’ essence through his art. His detailed illustrations brought Mexican Luchadors like Penta El Cero Miedo and Rey Fenix (known as the Lucha Bros in AEW) to life. But that wasn’t all—Erick’s portfolio also featured WWE’s Rey Mysterio and legendary Mexican wrestler Mil Mascaras.
C2E2: A Must-Visit Destination
C2E2 isn’t just a convention; it’s a pilgrimage for fans of wrestling and pop culture. As it celebrated its 15th anniversary, the event proved that its allure only grows with time. Whether you’re a seasoned wrestling fan or a curious newcomer, C2E2 welcomes you into a vibrant community where passion knows no bounds.
So mark your calendars, secure your tickets, and join the chorus of cheers at C2E2—the ultimate fusion of fandoms!
Next year's event will be from April 11-13, 2025!