The WWE’s lucrative partnership with the Saudi Arabian General Sports Authority (GSA) has been a topic of debate within the wrestling world for years. While the promotion has reaped significant financial rewards from hosting high-profile events in the Middle East, concerns over human rights, women’s rights, and the ongoing conflict in the region have sparked intense scrutiny.
WWE Hall of Famer and former WCW President Eric Bischoff recently weighed in on the situation, expressing his doubts about the possibility of WWE hosting Night of Champions 2026 in Saudi Arabia.
“I think it’s highly unlikely that WWE will take the risk of hosting Night of Champions in Saudi Arabia this year,” Bischoff said in an exclusive interview. “The situation on the ground is volatile, and the international community is increasingly calling for greater accountability from the Saudi government. I just don’t see WWE taking that kind of gamble.”
Bischoff’s comments come amidst a backdrop of escalating tensions in the Middle East. The ongoing conflict between Iran and Saudi Arabia has led to a significant increase in military spending and a heightened sense of uncertainty in the region.
WWE’s Saudi Arabia Conundrum
WWE’s partnership with the Saudi Arabian GSA began in 2014 with the WWE Cruiserweight Classic, a tournament that brought together some of the world’s top independent wrestlers to compete in the kingdom. The success of that event sparked a long-term agreement between the two parties, with WWE committing to hosting a minimum of 20 events in Saudi Arabia over the next five years.
While the financial rewards have been substantial, the partnership has also been marred by controversy. In 2019, the WWE faced intense backlash for hosting Crown Jewel in Saudi Arabia, an event that coincided with the 82nd birthday of the late Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, Salman.
Critics argued that the event was a tacit endorsement of the Saudi government’s human rights record, particularly with regards to the treatment of women and minority groups. The controversy surrounding Crown Jewel was further amplified by the decision to feature Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in a pre-tournament video package.
WWE’s Human Rights Concerns
WWE has consistently maintained that it takes human rights concerns seriously and has implemented policies to ensure that its events are safe and respectful for all participants and attendees.
However, many have questioned the effectiveness of these measures, citing instances of human rights abuses and mistreatment of women and minority groups in Saudi Arabia.
According to a WWE insider, the company has been working to address some of these concerns, particularly with regards to women’s rights. “WWE has been advocating for greater representation and empowerment of women in Saudi Arabia, particularly in the context of sports and entertainment,” the source said. “While there’s still much work to be done, we’re committed to making a positive impact in the kingdom.”
The Night of Champions Question
While Bischoff’s comments suggest that WWE may be hesitant to host Night of Champions in Saudi Arabia, it’s worth noting that the promotion has yet to make an official announcement regarding the event’s location.
Sources close to Cody Rhodes revealed that the WWE Championship holder has been pushing for a major event in the United States, citing concerns about the safety and security of fans in the Middle East.
“Cody’s been vocal about his concerns regarding the situation in Saudi Arabia,” a source said. “He’s a strong advocate for fan safety and security, and he’s been pushing for a major event in the States.”
Conclusion
As the WWE continues to navigate the complexities of its partnership with the Saudi Arabian GSA, it remains to be seen whether Night of Champions 2026 will take place in the kingdom.
While Bischoff’s comments suggest that the promotion may be hesitant to take the risk, it’s clear that the situation in the Middle East is highly fluid and subject to change at a moment’s notice.
One thing is certain, however: the WWE’s decision regarding Night of Champions 2026 will have significant implications for the future of the company’s partnership with Saudi Arabia and the global wrestling community.
Only time will tell if the WWE will take the gamble and host Night of Champions in the kingdom or opt for a safer and more secure location.