the venue inspired the opening of a sister-venue, WWE Niagara Falls, which featured a gift store and drop tower theme ride. Unlike The World, the Niagara Falls location was owned by Canadian Niagara Hotels Inc. with a licensing agreement from the WWE. Closure In February 2003, Linda McMahon, the CEO at the time, elected to close the restaurant and nightclub sections so WWE could concentrate more on their global efforts. The retail shop closed two months later. The complex remained closed for two years until 2005, when the Hard Rock Cafe took over the lease and the business. On August 16, 2006, WWE returned to the location for the 2006 Diva Search finale. WWE also held press conferences at the Hard Rock Cafe for WrestleMania 24, 25, 27 and 30. See also WWE Niagara Falls References External links Defunct restaurants in New York City Sports-themed restaurants WWE 1999 establishments in New York City 2003 disestablishments in New York (state) Restaurants established in 1999 Wrestling culture