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Long Island's Professional Wrestling History & Landmarks: Sayville

A look at the history of professional wrestling on Long Island, town by town

Sayville

Tom Phillips interviews Melissa Joan Hart backstage at SummerSlam: WWE.com  Exclusive, Aug. 23, 2015

Exclusive: Who are Melissa Joan Hart's Favorite AEW Stars? | 2/16/22

Sayville, New York, holds a historically rich footnote in professional wrestling lore, thanks to its hosting of a 1933 wrestling card at the Sayville Arena promoted by Jack Curley Promotions. Curley, a legendary New York-based sports impresario, helped elevate professional wrestling into a prominent entertainment business during the early 20th century.

In more recent times, Sayville has also made headlines through its connection with actress Melissa Joan Hart, who hails from the area and is an outspoken WWE fan. In November 2015, Hart launched a surprise social-media feud with WWE superstar Kevin Owens, tweeting that his character felt “lazy” -- a comment he promptly retorted to before blocking her on Twitter. The exchange quickly escalated, involving supportive tweets from members of The New Day, and even caught acknowledgement during a WWE Raw broadcast. She has also been seen on-camera during AEW and WWE live events.

Research by Darren Paltrowitz on June 21, 2025.