WWE recently announced that WrestleMania 43 will take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in 2027, marking the first time the company’s biggest event will be held outside North America[3][4]. This groundbreaking decision has fueled widespread speculation about WWE potentially hosting all future WrestleMania events in Saudi Arabia starting that year[5]. The move signals a possible strategic shift in WWE’s global footprint but comes with controversy and fan debate.
WrestleMania’s Historic Shift: Why 2027 and Why Saudi Arabia?
Originally, WWE planned to hold WrestleMania 44 in Saudi Arabia in 2028. However, Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority chairman, Turki Al-Sheikh, accelerated the timeline to 2027 to coincide with the country’s 300th anniversary (the founding of the First Saudi State in 1727)[1][2]. According to insider reporting, Al-Sheikh holds significant influence over WWE’s parent company, TKO Group Holdings, acting as a driving force behind the deal.
Dave Meltzer explained on Wrestling Observer Radio that while WWE had commitments keeping the 2027 date reserved elsewhere, Saudi Arabia’s leadership pushed hard to secure WrestleMania 43 within their celebratory year. Meltzer noted that Turki Al-Sheikh is “the final boss” due to his control over funding and influence within TKO’s leadership[1][2].
WWE Chief Content Officer Triple H (Paul “Triple H” Levesque) hailed the event as a milestone that highlights WWE’s global brand reach, stating the move presents an “opportunity to show the world that WWE is a global brand that reaches every corner.” Turki Al-Sheikh also added that Riyadh Season 2027 aims to “elevate this iconic event to unprecedented heights”[3].
The $1 Billion Saudi Deal and WWE’s Growing Saudi Relationship
WrestleMania 43 is part of a long-running partnership between WWE and Saudi Arabia, formalized in 2018 with a reported $1 billion 10-year deal[3][4]. Since then, WWE has hosted multiple premium live events (PLEs) annually in the Kingdom, including this January’s 2026 Royal Rumble—the first “Big Four” PLE held in Saudi Arabia.
The partnership has been lucrative but also controversial. Some fans and commentators have criticized WWE’s involvement with Saudi Arabia, citing issues related to human rights, including women’s rights and LGBTQ+ concerns, as well as political controversies following the 2018 murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi[4].
Rumors of a Permanent WrestleMania Saudi Residency: What’s the Buzz?
Reports and rumors have emerged suggesting WWE may choose to host every WrestleMania event in Saudi Arabia from 2027 onward[5]. The logistical benefits and financial incentives are clear, especially with Saudi Arabia’s deep pockets and willingness to fund major entertainment spectacles.
A WWE insider told PWMania, “Saudi Arabia has put themselves in a position of control for WWE’s global mega-events. The money is undeniable, and the influence within TKO’s upper management is strong. It’s not just a one-off—it’s shaping up to be a new permanent home for WrestleMania”[5].
However, official WWE statements have not confirmed a permanent relocation beyond WrestleMania 43. The traditional stronghold of WrestleMania in North America, particularly the United States, remains important for WWE due to legacy, fanbase size, and broadcasting arrangements.
Impact on WWE’s Global Strategy and Fan Reception
Moving WrestleMania to Saudi Arabia aligns with WWE’s broader international growth strategy, tapping into new markets and expanding its global footprint. It also complements TKO’s cross-promotional ambitions across UFC, boxing, and other entertainment sectors where Saudi Arabia has invested heavily.
Yet, fan reactions are mixed. Some longtime fans express disappointment, fearing that hosting WrestleMania outside of its historical North American base may erode tradition and accessibility for the core audience. Others view it as WWE adapting to the modern sports-entertainment landscape by embracing globalization.
Looking Ahead: Future WrestleMania Locations and WWE’s Negotiations
With WrestleMania 42 confirmed for Las Vegas in 2026 and 43 for Riyadh in 2027, locations such as New Orleans and Indianapolis, previously promised spots for WrestleMania, face uncertain dates[4]. The shift to Saudi Arabia might delay or alter those plans.
Sources close to WWE’s creative and business teams indicate ongoing negotiations balancing the company’s lucrative Saudi deal with maintaining ties to traditional U.S. markets. One executive noted, “It’s a negotiation between preserving WWE’s historical roots and maximizing new international financial opportunities. The Saudi anniversary event is just the start of a bigger strategy, but it doesn’t necessarily mean WrestleMania will never return stateside”[5].
Conclusion: A WrestleMania World Tour Starting Point or Permanent Home?
The announcement of WrestleMania 43 in Saudi Arabia represents a revolutionary step for WWE, making history by hosting the event outside North America for the first time in decades. While rumors of a permanent WrestleMania status in Saudi Arabia are gaining traction, WWE has yet to officially confirm such a plan.
Backstage sources emphasize the strong financial and political role Saudi Arabia plays within WWE’s parent company, suggesting this partnership will shape WWE’s future marquee events. Fans can expect WWE to leverage this relationship while weighing the company’s legacy and global business strategies carefully over the coming years.