WWE 2K26 Introduces the Ringside Pass, a New Way to Deliver DLC and Post-Launch Content
Alongside the announcement of WWE 2K26, 2K and Visual Concepts revealed a major evolution in how post-launch content will be delivered. Replacing the traditional DLC model is the all-new Ringside Pass, a battle-pass style system designed to offer more value, more flexibility, and more content than ever before.
To help players understand how this new system works, the team has shared the first Ringside Report, outlining everything from progression and rewards to season structure and DLC Superstars.
How the Ringside Pass Works
The Ringside Pass introduces a seasonal progression system with two reward tracks:
- A free track is available to all players
- A premium track available through the Ringside Premium Pass
Ringside Pass Season 1 goes live on March 6, launching alongside Early Access. This means players will not need to wait weeks or months after release for the first wave of DLC content.
Every season features 40 tiers, with rewards distributed across both tracks.
- Free Track: 60 rewards
- Premium Track: 60 additional rewards
- Total per season: 120 rewards
Progression is earned by collecting RXP, which is gained simply by playing the game.
Earning RXP Through Gameplay
Players earn RXP by completing matches across most core modes, provided they are connected online. Winning matches grants more RXP, and additional bonuses can be earned through challenges, including repeatable objectives and one-time milestone rewards.
As players level up, rewards are claimed automatically before moving on to the next tier. These rewards can include VC, MyFACTION packs, MFP, Island banners, Personas, CAS parts, DLC Superstars, and more.
Game modes that reward RXP include:
- Play Now
- Universe
- MyRISE
- Showcase
- MyGM
- MyFACTION
- The Island
Online matchmaking, MyFACTION, and The Island all reward RXP, while custom online lobbies do not.
Premium Track and DLC Superstars
Players who purchase the Ringside Premium Pass unlock the premium reward track in addition to the free one. Progression applies to both tracks simultaneously, meaning a player at Tier 5 earns the Tier 5 rewards from both free and premium tracks.
Each premium Ringside Pass includes:
- Post-launch DLC Superstars
- Personas
- CAS parts
- Island taunts and cosmetics
- Arenas and championships
The first DLC Superstar unlocks automatically, while the remaining DLC characters are unlocked within the first 20 tiers by earning RXP through regular play. Personas are generally unlocked between Tiers 21 and 40.
What Happens When a New Season Starts
Unlike traditional battle passes, Ringside Pass seasons do not expire.
When a new season launches, players can:
- Finish the current season before moving on
- Jump directly to the new season and return later
- Switch freely between seasons
This means no content is ever lost, and players can progress at their own pace.
Six Ringside Passes Planned for the Year
There will be six Ringside Pass seasons released throughout the year, with new DLC Superstars and rewards spread across each one.
Planned release schedule:
- Season 1: March 6
- Season 2: April, before WrestleMania 42
- Season 3: June
- Season 4: July
- Season 5: September
- Season 6: October
This marks the first time in the franchise that post-launch DLC characters are available at launch.
WWE Legends and the End of the SuperCharger
The traditional SuperCharger DLC has been retired. WWE Legends that were previously unlocked through Tokens or the SuperCharger are now included in the free track of Ringside Pass Season 1.
This allows all players to unlock Legends by playing the game and earning RXP, with no additional purchases required.
Optional tier skips will be available for premium track owners, but all content can still be unlocked through gameplay alone.
Family Sharing and Profiles
As with previous DLC, Ringside Pass content can be shared across family profiles on the same console. Progress through the Ringside Pass, however, remains unique to each profile.
What Comes Next
The full DLC roster will be revealed at a later date and spread across the premium tracks of all six Ringside Pass seasons. Additional rewards such as Personas, MyFACTION content, The Island updates, CAS parts, and new moves will be announced closer to each season’s release.
For Season 1 specifically, the premium track includes:
- 4 new playable Superstars
- 2 Personas
- 2 new arenas
- 2 new championships
A Big Shift for WWE 2K
The Ringside Pass represents a significant shift in how WWE 2K26 delivers post-launch content. By removing expiration pressure, adding a free reward path, and making DLC Superstars available at launch, the system puts flexibility and player choice front and center.
For longtime fans, it is a clear signal that WWE 2K is investing in a more sustainable, player-friendly future.