WWE’s landmark decision to hold WrestleMania 43 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in 2027 has generated mixed reactions from fans and critics alike. While many applaud the move as a historic global expansion, a vocal segment of the WWE fanbase has expressed concern and negativity regarding the venue choice. Wrestling legend JBL has weighed in, expressing confusion over the backlash and offering a supportive perspective on the company’s latest bold step.
WrestleMania 43: A Historic First Outside North America
The announcement that WrestleMania 43 will be held in Saudi Arabia marks the first time WWE’s premier event takes place outside of North America since its inception in 1985. Scheduled as a two-night extravaganza during Riyadh Season, WrestleMania Riyadh is set to coincide with the 300th anniversary of the founding of the First Saudi State, making the event culturally significant for the host country[1][2].
WWE Chief Content Officer Paul “Triple H” Levesque hailed the event as an opportunity to showcase WWE’s status as a truly global brand reaching audiences worldwide. During the announcement in Las Vegas, Triple H emphasized the partnership with the Saudi General Entertainment Authority, calling it “fruitful” and “historic,” with expectations of elevating WrestleMania “to unprecedented heights”[1][5].
JBL’s Perspective: Confusion Over Negative Fan Reactions
John “Bradshaw” Layfield (JBL), a former WWE Champion and long-time wrestling analyst, reacted to the backlash with bewilderment. In an interview following the announcement, he stated he didn’t understand why fans were responding negatively to the Saudi Arabia booking.
JBL conveyed that WWE’s partnership with Saudi Arabia has expanded the wrestling audience and provided new opportunities for talent and fans alike. He suggested that focusing solely on the political controversies surrounding the country overlooks the potential for positive cultural exchange and sports entertainment growth.
An insider close to WWE revealed, “JBL believes this move is about progress and growth. He sees this as an evolution in WWE’s global reach and thinks the company’s efforts to bring Saudi fans bigger shows deserve respect.” This behind-the-scenes insight aligns with JBL’s stance that WrestleMania 43 could be a groundbreaking moment for WWE on the international stage.
Fan Concerns and Criticisms
Despite JBL’s optimism, a substantial faction of the wrestling community has voiced concerns about WWE’s ongoing partnership with Saudi Arabia. Critics often cite the Kingdom’s human rights record, particularly in areas involving women’s rights and LGBTQ+ issues, as reasons for discomfort with hosting a flagship event there[3].
Some fans recall the controversy after the tragic murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi and have questioned whether WWE should continue promoting events in Saudi Arabia given these geopolitical realities.
Adding to the scrutiny, several prominent wrestlers and public figures have expressed their nuanced views. Some praise WWE for attempting to foster change by featuring more women wrestlers in Saudi events — for instance, athletes like Bianca Belair highlighted the cultural progress and acceptance they witnessed during recent Saudi shows[4]. Others remain more skeptical, viewing such efforts as insufficient against the backdrop of broader concerns.
WWE’s Long-Term Saudi Partnership: A $1 Billion Investment
WrestleMania 43 is part of a decade-long deal WWE inked with Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority in 2018, reportedly worth $1 billion. Since then, WWE has regularly held premium live events (PLEs) in the country every year. Initially, these events were seen primarily as lucrative but secondary to the core WWE calendar[1][3].
However, that perception shifted when WWE announced the 2026 Royal Rumble in Riyadh, the first of its “Big Four” pay-per-views to be hosted in Saudi Arabia, signaling a deeper integration of the partnership[3]. WrestleMania, WWE’s biggest showcase and flagship event, represents the pinnacle of this collaboration, indicating the company’s confidence in the Saudi market.
A WWE insider shared, “The Saudi Arabian partnership is a centerpiece of WWE’s global growth strategy. It’s about tapping into new fan bases and markets, which promise long-term value for the company and the talent roster.”
The Evolution of Women’s Wrestling in Saudi Arabia
One of the positive narratives WWE has promoted is the progress in women’s wrestling within Saudi Arabia. Bianca Belair has been vocal about how the Kingdom has become a platform where women can make history and inspire future generations through their participation in WWE events[4]. The introduction of all-women’s matches in Saudi Arabia and increased visibility of female wrestlers on billboards and promotional materials reflect this evolution.
This progress is important in a region where women’s participation in certain sports and public entertainment has historically been limited. WWE’s role in this cultural shift factors prominently into their willingness to deepen the partnership and stage WrestleMania 43 there.
What to Expect From WrestleMania Riyadh
WrestleMania Riyadh is expected to maintain WWE’s signature spectacle magnified by regional flair. Anticipated as a two-night event, it will feature the company’s Raw and SmackDown rosters competing in high-profile matches with storylines designed to captivate a global audience.
The event is forecasted to incorporate elements of Saudi culture as part of Riyadh Season, a festival celebrating entertainment and tourism in the region[2]. This integration aims to deliver an authentic and culturally respectful experience, both for live attendees and millions watching worldwide.
Looking Ahead: WWE’s Global Ambitions
WrestleMania 43 in Saudi Arabia reflects WWE’s broader ambitions to grow beyond traditional markets. The company has repeatedly emphasized its vision of wrestling as a universal language, transcending borders and connecting diverse fans.
JBL summarized this ethos when he remarked, “If we want WWE to truly be the worldwide leader in sports entertainment, we have to embrace new territories. This is how the business evolves.”
This move to Saudi Arabia could open doors for further international expansions, accommodating growing audiences in the Middle East and beyond, while simultaneously facing the challenge to balance business objectives with social responsibility.
The WWE WrestleMania 43 announcement has ignited lively discussion and passion among wrestling fans worldwide. While voices like JBL’s stress opportunity and growth, others remain cautious, reflecting the complex realities underpinning this historic yet controversial choice. WWE’s ability to navigate this delicate landscape will shape the legacy of WrestleMania Riyadh and its role in the future of professional wrestling.
