WWE has been in a partnership with Saudi Arabia since 2018, generating approximately $100 million annually from major events. Plans are underway to increase future events in the Kingdom, including the 2026 Royal Rumble, which will take place outside North America for the first time, raising concerns over the company’s commitment to tradition versus financial interests.
Since 2018, World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) has maintained a significant partnership with the Saudi Arabian government, characterized by launching major premium live events (PLEs) through a long-term agreement with the Saudi General Entertainment Authority (GEA). This collaboration has provided WWE with considerable financial benefits, allegedly amounting to approximately $100 million annually for just two events in the Middle East. Despite these financial rewards, WWE faces scrutiny for moving significant events away from traditional Western markets, raising concerns regarding the depth of its financial connections with Saudi Arabia.
In a recent statement, TKO Group Holdings Chief Financial Officer Andrew Schleimer indicated that WWE’s strategy involves increasing the number of PLEs hosted in Saudi Arabia. While there will be a temporary decrease to one event in 2025, which is projected to result in a $55 million loss, WWE plans to escalate the number of events to three by 2026. Notably, the 2026 Royal Rumble will mark an unprecedented occasion as it will be conducted outside North America, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s ambition to establish itself as a global entertainment and sports hub.
The expansion of WWE’s ties to Saudi Arabia is likely to evoke mixed reactions within the wrestling community. While some may relish the opportunity for WWE to explore new markets, others are likely to view this development as a prioritization of financial gain over traditional values. Ultimately, WWE’s increasing association with Saudi Arabia signifies a pivotal shift in the organization’s future, with the 2026 Royal Rumble serving as a landmark event indicative of the growing partnership.
In conclusion, WWE’s longstanding partnership with Saudi Arabia has led to significant financial gains through large-scale events. While plans to increase the number of PLEs indicate a deepening relationship, critics remain concerned about the implications for WWE’s traditional roots. The upcoming 2026 Royal Rumble exemplifies this evolving dynamic, highlighting a historical moment in WWE’s trajectory.
Original Source: ringsideintel.com
