Fierce debate has erupted on social media over Etihad Stadium’s re-naming under a blockbuster deal with Walt Disney Company.

The eight-year deal, which will see the stadium renamed from September 1 this year, includes the complete rebranding of the stadium and a premium Marvel retail store.

Melbourne Stadium Limited said the new partnership is a dynamic step forward for the stadium.

"Marvel is a powerhouse in the entertainment industry and one of the most recognised brand names in the world. It is a brand dedicated to audience experiences, which firmly aligns with our vision to create incredible experiences for fans," MSL CEO Michael Green said.

"Over 18-years, we have become the world’s busiest multi-purpose stadium. Now, we look forward to a new era of entertainment for the stadium where we will push the envelope and continue to deliver world-class events and fan engagement.

"This partnership will allow us to take the stadium atmosphere to the next level and create memorable experiences for a vast array of audiences and we look forward to delivering a truly game-changing experience."

Etihad Stadium will be renamed Marvel Stadium after a massive new deal with Walt Disney Company. (Nine)

Melbourne Stadium Limited said the new partnership is a dynamic step forward for the stadium. (Nine)

But news of the name change has sparked a mixed reaction on Twitter, with some loving it and others hating the change.

“I feel blessed to live in the same city as Marvel Stadium,” one fan wrote.

Other tweeters were much more critical, with one describing the change as “silly”.

Another said “I’m not calling it Marvel Stadium. That’s never going to happen.”

The grounds have been previously named the Docklands stadium, Colonial Stadium and the Telstra Dome.

Along with a fresh name, the area surrounding Etihad Stadium will also undergo a $225 million upgrade as part of the deal.

The new deal follows a partnership between the stadium and Etihad Airways, which finishes up at the end of August.

Walt Disney Company Australia managing director Kylie Watson-Wheeler said the sponsorship deal provided a new way for the Marvel brand to interact with a broad audience.



"Through (this) partnership with MSL we hope to bring people together and provide them with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the Marvel brand," Watson-Wheeler said.

Construction on the Docklands venue began in 1997.

Construction on the venue began in October 1997 with the first event between Essendon and Port Adelaide played in March 2000. (Supplied)