The 2024 Royal Rumble event is fast approaching, and the WWE is gearing up for what promises to be an electrifying show. However, behind the scenes, there are whispers of a few high-profile names not making the trip to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where the event will be held. The Street Profits, a fan favorite tag team, have been named alongside Grayson Waller and WWE director Marty Miller as those reportedly staying behind.
WWE’s Decision to Leave Talent Behind
According to sources close to the situation, the decision to leave some talent behind is largely a logistical one. The Street Profits’ Montez Ford and Angelo Dawkins, along with Grayson Waller, have reportedly been granted permission to stay behind due to concerns over the safety and well-being of their families. WWE has long been criticized for its handling of talent safety and well-being, particularly in regards to its international shows.
The decision has left many in the WWE community scratching their heads, particularly given the company’s emphasis on showcasing top talent at its biggest events. With the Street Profits being a key part of the company’s push for diversity and inclusion, their absence from the Royal Rumble is a significant blow to morale.
Backstage Reaction to the Decision
Sources close to the WWE have revealed that the decision to leave the Street Profits behind has been met with a mix of emotions backstage. While some talent are seen as understanding the logistical concerns, others are reportedly frustrated by the company’s continued reliance on international shows.
“We’re trying to build a brand here, and every time we get momentum, it’s like we’re being pulled back by the company’s priorities,” a WWE insider revealed. “It’s like, we’re supposed to be the best and most exciting thing out there, but at the end of the day, we’re just pawns in a much larger game.”
The Royal Rumble: What to Expect
Despite the absence of some key talent, the Royal Rumble is shaping up to be an event for the ages. With Cody Rhodes set to face Roman Reigns for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship, the stage is set for a thrilling main event.
In addition to the high-stakes title match, the event will feature a packed card of matches, including a women’s Royal Rumble match that promises to be one of the most competitive of all time. With a number of top female talent vying for a spot on the main roster, this year’s match is shaping up to be particularly exciting.
WWE’s Future in Saudi Arabia
The decision to leave some talent behind has sparked renewed debate over WWE’s ongoing partnership with the Saudi Arabian government. While the company has maintained that its shows in Saudi Arabia are a key part of its growth strategy, many have raised concerns over the country’s human rights record and its treatment of minority groups.
As the WWE continues to navigate the complex world of international wrestling politics, one thing is clear: the company’s decision to leave some talent behind is a sign of the times. With the winds of change blowing through the industry, the WWE must confront the consequences of its actions and make tough decisions about where to draw the line.
Conclusion
The 2024 Royal Rumble is shaping up to be a pivotal moment in the WWE’s history. With a number of high-profile names staying behind, the company must navigate the complex web of logistics and politics that comes with staging a major event in a foreign country. As the WWE looks to the future, one thing is clear: the company must prioritize the safety and well-being of its talent above all else.