WWE Moves Forward With Saudi Night of Champions Despite Security Concerns
Preparations continue amid heightened Middle East tensions as WWE weighs safety and financial stakes for its Saudi Arabia events.
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.