How WWE 2K26’s New Ringside Pass Will Work

When WWE 2K26 launches in March, one of the most significant changes players will notice is how downloadable content is handled. The traditional DLC pack model, where players immediately received a bundle of Superstars, moves, and items, has been replaced by a new system called the Ringside Pass.

The WWE 2K26 Ringside Pass functions similarly to a battle pass system seen in other games, with rewards unlocked by playing rather than being granted instantly. With the change generating plenty of questions, 2K Sports has now outlined exactly how the new system will work.

Each Ringside Pass will feature two tracks, a free tier and a premium tier. The free tier includes 60 rewards spread across 40 tiers, with some tiers containing multiple items. Rewards on the free track include VC, MyFACTION packs, MFP, Island banners, and other cosmetic or currency-based items.

Players who purchase the premium tier will unlock an additional 60 rewards across the same 40 tiers. Premium rewards include playable Superstars, Create-A-Superstar parts, Island taunts, Personas, and other exclusive content.

When Will The WWE 2K26 Ringside Pass Launch?

The Ringside Pass will roll out across six seasons during WWE 2K26’s lifecycle. The first season launches alongside the game on March 6, with future seasons scheduled throughout the year. While exact dates have not been confirmed for every season, 2K has outlined the planned release months: March, April, June, July, September, and October.

One notable difference from most battle pass systems is that Ringside Pass content will not expire. If a new season begins before a player completes the previous one, all rewards remain available. Players can choose whether to continue progressing through an earlier season or move on to the latest pass at any time.

Progression through the Ringside Pass is earned by playing most of the game’s major modes. XP can be gained in Play Now, MyRise, Showcase, Universe, MyGM, MyFACTION, and The Island. Custom online lobbies, however, will not contribute towards pass progression.

For premium players, new wrestlers will no longer unlock instantly at launch. Instead, the first Superstar will be available immediately when a season begins, with additional wrestlers unlocked within the first 20 tiers. Further content, including Persona characters, will be unlocked between tiers 21 and 40.

For those who prefer not to grind through tiers, optional tier skips will be available for purchase on the premium track. Pricing details for tier skips have not yet been announced.

Additional information on which Superstars and items will be included in each Ringside Pass season is expected closer to each launch window.