WWE has maintained a significant partnership with Saudi Arabia since 2018, earning around $100 million yearly for two premium live events. Despite a temporary decrease to one event in 2025, the company plans to expand to three by 2026, including the historically significant Royal Rumble, which will be held in Saudi Arabia for the first time. This expansion has elicited mixed reactions regarding the balance between financial interests and traditional values in wrestling.
Since 2018, World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) has engaged in a substantial partnership with the Saudi Arabian government, primarily through hosting significant premium live events (PLEs) as part of a long-term agreement with the Saudi General Entertainment Authority (GEA). This collaboration has proven financially lucrative, with WWE reportedly earning approximately $100 million annually for two PLEs in the Middle East region.
Despite the lucrative nature of this partnership, WWE plans to further deepen its ties with Saudi Arabia. In 2025, the company anticipates a reduction to just one PLE in Saudi Arabia, which will result in a projected revenue loss of around $55 million. However, this is a temporary setback, as WWE intends to expand their offerings to three PLEs by 2026, indicating an optimistic future in the region.
A notable highlight of this expansion is the decision to hold the 2026 Royal Rumble in Saudi Arabia, marking the first occasion this event will occur outside North America. This decision reflects Saudi Arabia’s broader ambitions to establish itself as a global hub for sports and entertainment, leveraging strategic partnerships to enhance its international standing.
The growing relationship between WWE and Saudi Arabia has drawn mixed reactions. Some view the expansion into new markets as a positive development, while others express concerns regarding WWE prioritizing financial gains over traditional values. As this partnership solidifies, particularly with the historic 2026 Royal Rumble, it underscores the evolving dynamics within the wrestling industry.
In conclusion, WWE’s partnership with Saudi Arabia continues to flourish, with significant financial implications and plans for future events. The forthcoming Royal Rumble in Saudi Arabia will serve as a landmark moment for both WWE and the region, highlighting the complex balance between commercial opportunity and traditional loyalties within sports entertainment. The reactions from the wrestling community will undoubtedly shape the narrative surrounding this partnership.
Original Source: ringsideintel.com
