WrestleMania 43 is set to make a historic leap outside the United States, with Saudi Arabia primed to host the event in 2027. Multiple credible sources, including insider reports and official confirmations, have revealed that WWE’s flagship event will be held in the Kingdom, marking the first time WrestleMania takes place abroad. This landmark deal is reportedly worth a staggering $100 million and promises to be the most star-studded WrestleMania ever produced.
Saudi Arabia’s Longstanding Ambition to Host WrestleMania
The partnership between WWE and Saudi Arabia has deep roots dating back to a 10-year agreement initiated in 2018. Since then, the Kingdom has hosted several major WWE events, including the Greatest Royal Rumble in 2018 and the jährliche Crown Jewel events. However, WrestleMania—the “Showcase of the Immortals” and WWE’s largest annual event—has remained a coveted prize for Saudi officials.
According to Turki Al-Sheikh, the chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority and a key figure behind the partnership, WrestleMania 43 will be a monumental occasion held in the Kingdom, elevating Saudi’s place on the global wrestling map. His announcement came unexpectedly via Snapchat, confirming that the event is not only planned but already a done deal, though WWE has yet to issue a formal press release[2][4].
Why 2027? The Historic and Financial Significance
Industry veteran Dave Meltzer disclosed on Wrestling Observer Radio that the timing is strategic. Saudi Arabia will be celebrating the 300th anniversary of its founding in 1727, making 2027 a symbolic year for hosting such a grand spectacle. The country is reportedly investing “a ridiculous amount of money” to ensure the event’s success, signaling no budget constraints for securing top talent and lavish production[1][3].
Meltzer further explained that the deal was solidified by early August 2025 and is spearheaded by Turki Al-Sheikh, who has considerable financial backing and influence. This collaboration involves Ari Emanuel (head of TKO), Nick Khan (WWE president), Dana White (UFC president), and ultimately Turki as the primary decision-maker controlling the purse strings[1][3].
A WWE source close to the negotiation revealed:
“Saudi Arabia wants WrestleMania 43 to be the most star-studded event in WWE history. They’re willing to pay any price to bring back retired legends and top stars alike for one last, unforgettable showcase.”
The Impact on WWE and Fans
The announcement has sparked mixed reactions among the wrestling community. Hosting WrestleMania in Saudi Arabia represents WWE’s continuing expansion into the international market, especially in regions willing to invest heavily. The lucrative deal reportedly eclipses WWE’s previous Saudi event partnerships, which have averaged $50 million per event, offering the company a significant financial boon[5].
There has been talk that Saudi Arabia might also host the Royal Rumble in 2026 as part of their growing involvement with WWE’s premium events. This could potentially lead to the first-ever “two WrestleMania year,” though Meltzer noted that it’s more likely WrestleMania 43 in 2027 will be the singular show for that year rather than doubling up[1].
From a marketing perspective, WWE stands to gain from combining the spectacle of WrestleMania with increased exposure in the Middle East, further boosting the brand’s global footprint. For fans, this move offers a chance to see fresh matchups and possibly the return of some retired WWE legends, summoned by the “money no object” approach Saudi Arabia is taking.
Questions Remain: Logistics and Lineup
While the venue in Saudi Arabia has not been officially announced, it is expected to be one of the Kingdom’s premier stadiums equipped to handle the scale of WrestleMania. The exact card and match specifics remain unconfirmed, though insiders suggest Saudi officials are actively trying to secure top-tier talent—both current stars and beloved retirees—for the event.
According to information circulating backstage, Saudi Arabia intends to not only deliver a spectacle but to craft a WrestleMania narrative that appeals to both American and international audiences, minimizing past controversies about holding events abroad. The normalization of events in the region and globalization of WWE’s fan base seem to have softened previous backlash[1].
What This Means for WWE’s Future
This deal signals a confident and aggressive global growth strategy by WWE and its parent company TKO Group Holdings. Placing WrestleMania in Saudi Arabia reflects WWE’s willingness to blend tradition with innovation, shifting its flagship show from its American roots for the first time in its nearly four-decade history.
A WWE insider commented:
“This isn’t just a business move—it’s a statement. WWE and Saudi Arabia are both looking to create a new legacy with WrestleMania 43. Expect extravagant production, historic matches, and some surprises that the WWE Universe will never forget.”
As the event draws nearer, fans and industry watchers will be keenly observing how WWE balances patriotism, global business interests, and the entertainment expectations that come with the biggest night in sports entertainment.
WrestleMania 43’s journey to Saudi Arabia is poised to redefine WWE’s global narrative, blending cultural celebration with the electrifying spectacle that has made the event legendary worldwide. With massive financial backing, a historic anniversary to honor, and ambitions to showcase the greatest wrestling stars ever, 2027 promises a WrestleMania unlike any other.