Internal discussions have taken place within WWE regarding the status of its upcoming events in Saudi Arabia, according to Bryan Alvarez of the Wrestling Observer. Alvarez was clear that no decisions have been made and that nothing has been cancelled or is in the process of being cancelled — he is specifically reporting that conversations about the shows’ status have occurred inside the company.
The discussions involve the two remaining WWE premium live events scheduled for Saudi Arabia in 2026, tentatively planned for May and November, as well as WrestleMania 43 in Riyadh in 2027. The talks are taking place in the context of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Saudi Arabia Partnership Worth Roughly $55 Million Per Event to WWE
WWE’s relationship with Saudi Arabia dates back to 2018 under a partnership with the Saudi General Entertainment Authority, with the deal running through at least 2027. Each Saudi Arabia show is worth approximately $55 million to WWE, with the Royal Rumble believed to carry an even higher value. WWE has now held 14 events in the country under the partnership, including the Royal Rumble in Riyadh on January 31 — the first of three Saudi PLEs planned for 2026.
WrestleMania 43, if it proceeds as planned, would be the first WrestleMania ever held outside of North America. Alvarez’s report suggests that while nothing is imminent, the company is at least actively monitoring the situation given the geopolitical climate.
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