Posted on 6/22/125 by DMV Wrestling News
WWE’s scheduled Night of Champions event in Saudi Arabia on
June 28, along with the SmackDown broadcast the night
before, is under close review amid heightened geopolitical
tensions following recent U.S. airstrikes in Iran. Despite
regional concerns, Fightful sources, as reported by
411mania, indicate that preparations are continuing “full
steam ahead” as of Sunday afternoon local time in Saudi
Arabia. One source expressed doubt that the event would be
postponed or canceled, citing the significant financial
stakes involved, particularly with the Royal Rumble set to
take place in the Kingdom in 2026.
That source added that, despite the tensions, “Saudi is one
of the safest places in the world,” and another insider
suggested WWE would be given assurances regarding safety.
The show is reportedly in full build mode, with fan events
scheduled to be announced soon.
Security experts have raised concerns about potential
retaliatory attacks on American and Western interests
throughout the Middle East. The Jerusalem Post reports the
risk level has increased since the U.S. bombings,
complicating the logistics of hosting international events.
The presence of U.S. military bases within Saudi Arabia,
identified by Iranian state television as possible targets,
adds to the security considerations.
The United Kingdom has issued travel advisories warning its
citizens, including wrestlers and fans, against traveling to
nearby Gulf countries such as the United Arab Emirates and
Qatar. The U.S. Embassy in Saudi Arabia and the Department
of State have similarly updated travel advisories, urging
increased caution due to geopolitical tensions.
Reactions among wrestling fans and residents in Saudi Arabia
are mixed. Some express excitement about hosting a globally
recognized event and the economic benefits it offers. Others
express apprehension given the current regional instability.
More broadly, many in the Arab world fear the potential for
a larger conflict destabilizing an already volatile region.
Social media discussions reflect these concerns, with calls
for diplomacy and de-escalation.
WWE is reportedly working closely with Saudi officials and
security teams to assess risks as it evaluates whether the
June 27 SmackDown and June 28 Night of Champions shows can
proceed safely. Internal contingency plans are reportedly in
place should conditions change.
WWE’s partnership with Saudi Arabia has been lucrative,
reportedly bringing the company over $500 million since 2018
through events like Crown Jewel, Super ShowDown, Night of
Champions, and the upcoming Royal Rumble in 2026. However,
this relationship has faced criticism for contributing to
sportswashing - helping improve the Kingdom’s global image
despite ongoing human rights abuses, including the murder of
journalist Jamal Khashoggi.
As WWE balances business and safety concerns, the wrestling
community watches closely to see how the company will
proceed in this rapidly evolving situation.
My take: Full speed ahead as long as there is money to be
made. When WWE went to Afghanistan, Iraq, or other hostile
Middle Eastern areas, it was part of the tradition of
American entertainers like Bob Hope visiting troops in war
zones to boost morale. This Saudi Arabia partnership is
different. It is purely driven by profit. WWE will likely
only show real concern if actual violence threatens their
talent or fans. It is also possible that individual WWE
superstars may refuse to participate due to ethical or
geopolitical reasons, as has happened before with talent
like Sami Zayn, Daniel Bryan, and Kevin Owens opting out of
Saudi shows.
Sources: Fightful, Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Sports
Business Journal, The Jerusalem Post, Newsweek, U.S. Embassy
in Saudi Arabia Travel Advisory, U.S. Department of State
Travel Advisory, 411mania.