The WWE’s relationship with Saudi Arabia has been a topic of controversy in recent years, with several high-profile events taking place in the country as part of the company’s “Crown Jewel” deal. However, a brewing conflict in the Middle East has sparked internal discussions about the status of WWE’s upcoming shows in the region, including its two remaining Premium Live Events (PLEs) scheduled for 2026 and WrestleMania 43 in Riyadh.
WWE’s Saudi Arabia Partnership Under Scrutiny
According to sources close to the company, WWE executives have been engaged in a series of discussions regarding the feasibility of continuing its Saudi Arabia partnership in light of the escalating tensions in the region. The partnership, which has seen WWE host several high-profile events in the country, has been a lucrative one for the company, but it has also been met with criticism from some of its talent and fans.
“The situation in the Middle East is a concern for a lot of people, and it’s natural that WWE is taking a closer look at its partnership with Saudi Arabia,” said a WWE insider. “While the partnership has been beneficial for the company, it’s not worth risking the safety and well-being of our talent and staff. We’re not looking to cancel anything just yet, but we are exploring all options and considering the potential impact on our business and our people.”
WWE’s PLEs and WrestleMania 43 in the Crosshairs
The two remaining PLEs scheduled for Saudi Arabia in 2026 are already generating a lot of buzz among WWE fans and insiders. The events, which are expected to take place in the summer and fall, were announced as part of WWE’s 2026 schedule, but it’s unclear whether they will still go ahead as planned.
WrestleMania 43, which is scheduled to take place in Riyadh in 2026, is also under scrutiny. The event is expected to be one of the biggest and most highly anticipated shows of the year, but the uncertainty surrounding the Middle East conflict has raised concerns about its viability.
WWE’s Options and Next Steps
WWE has several options available to it, including cancelling or postponing the events, or even relocating them to a different location. The company has already experienced setbacks in the past due to the Middle East conflict, including the cancellation of a planned event in 2022.
According to sources, WWE is working closely with its partners and stakeholders to assess the situation and determine the best course of action. The company is also said to be exploring alternative venues and dates for its PLEs and WrestleMania 43.
The Impact on WWE’s Business and Talent
The potential cancellation or postponement of WWE’s Saudi Arabia events could have significant implications for the company’s business and its talent. WWE’s partnership with Saudi Arabia has been a major driver of revenue growth for the company, and any disruption to this partnership could have a negative impact on its bottom line.
The situation could also have a significant impact on WWE’s talent, many of whom have expressed concerns about the company’s partnership with Saudi Arabia in the past. Some have even publicly spoken out against the partnership, citing concerns about human rights and workers’ rights in the country.
Conclusion
The situation in the Middle East is a complex and sensitive one, and WWE’s decision-making process will likely be influenced by a range of factors, including its business interests, its relationships with its partners and stakeholders, and its commitment to the safety and well-being of its talent and staff.
As the situation continues to unfold, WWE fans and insiders will be watching closely to see how the company navigates this challenging and complex situation. Will WWE continue to push forward with its Saudi Arabia partnership, or will it take a more cautious approach? Only time will tell.