The Orlando Predators have announced a strategic partnership with entertainment veteran Eric 'Ruebx Qube' Neal as Stadium Entertainment Executive Producer for the 2025 season, signaling a significant shift in arena football entertainment experience.
Neal, with nearly two decades of experience in music and entertainment, will spearhead a comprehensive reimagining of game-day entertainment at the KIA Center. His most notable contribution will be the Executive Mezcal Halftime Show, a high-energy performance platform designed to integrate cutting-edge visuals, live performances, and interactive fan engagement.
Team owner John Cheney emphasized the strategic alignment, stating that Neal's creative background and entrepreneurial spirit perfectly complement the organization's commitment to delivering exceptional fan experiences. General Manager Shawn Knapp echoed this sentiment, highlighting the team's ongoing pursuit of innovative entertainment strategies.
The partnership represents more than a typical entertainment upgrade. Neal, a former football athlete, sees this opportunity as a chance to merge sports and entertainment, creating a unique spectator experience that transcends traditional arena football presentations.
The inaugural Executive Mezcal Halftime Show will stream live on Amazon's Prime Video, potentially expanding the Predators' reach beyond traditional local audiences. This digital integration suggests a forward-thinking approach to sports entertainment that could influence other arena football franchises.
The Predators' first home game of the 2025 season is scheduled for March 14, promising fans a reimagined sporting event that blends athletic competition with world-class entertainment. By bringing Neal's extensive entertainment industry expertise to arena football, the team is positioning itself as an innovator in sports entertainment.
With this strategic partnership, the Orlando Predators are not just preparing for a new season, but potentially setting a new standard for fan engagement in arena football. Neal's vision suggests a future where halftime shows and game-day experiences are as anticipated as the athletic competition itself.
