WrestleMania's inception was a response to the growing popularity of professional wrestling in the 1980s. Vince McMahon, the founder of WWE, sought to create an event that would surpass the grandeur of traditional wrestling shows. The first WrestleMania, held at Madison Square Garden in New York City, featured a star-studded lineup, including Hulk Hogan, Mr. T, and "Macho Man" Randy Savage. The event's success was immediate, with over 18,000 attendees and a sold-out arena.