Russellmania Runs Wild Over The Union Event Center in Salt Lake City
April 8, 2025
SALT LAKE CITY — Russell Dickerson’s “RussellMania” tour ran wild through The Union Event Center this past weekend, delivering a high-octane concert that blended country music with the flair of a professional wrestling event, complete with a Hulk Hogan video intro, and championship belts.
A packed house turned out for the spectacle, eagerly anticipating the return of the country hitmaker. Kicking off the night was Utah’s own Whitney Lusk, marking her second time opening for Dickerson. The local favorite was met with enthusiasm as she danced across the stage, delivering a lively mix of originals and crowd-pleasing covers, including Bryan Adams’ “Summer of ‘69” and Jo Dee Messina’s “Bye Bye.”
By the time Lusk wrapped up her set, the crowd was roaring and ready to go. As the lights dimmed and a pre-recorded Hulk Hogan greeted the crowd, chants of “RD” echoed throughout the space. A giant “RUSSELLMANIA” graphic lit up the screen behind the stage, and Dickerson emerged flexing his muscles and channeling Hogan’s larger-than-life energy, launching straight into an electrifying performance.
The energy never let up. A standout moment came during the song “Happen to Me,” when the crowd erupted at the opening chords. “Oh, you know this one!” Dickerson shouted, visibly surprised by the crowd’s response. “What’s even happening? This song has only been out for about five weeks. I’ve been looking forward to playing this here,” he added, going on to say that while Boston used to be his favorite city to play, Salt Lake City had taken the title in recent tours.
Another high point came when Dickerson brought out surprise guest Jake Scott during the hit “She Likes It.” The crowd roared as Scott joined him on stage and after the song announcing he’d be back in Salt Lake City for a solo show in July.
Dickerson closed the show with fan favorites “I’m Yours” and “Blue Tacoma,” showering the crowd in confetti for a memorable finale.
The concert marked the end of this leg of Dickerson’s tour, which resumes June 5 in New York. With unforgettable moments and undeniable energy, “RussellMania” left Salt Lake City fans already hoping for a rematch.
For more tour information, visit Rusell Dickerson’s website.
