We are only a few weeks removed from WWE and UFC merging to create TKO Group Holdings. Ari Emanuel’s Endeavor owns the new publicly traded company. Since the merge, several changes have been made to WWE. Notably, around one hundred employees and thirty roster members were terminated. One of the big questions going into the merge was how Endeavor would handle WWE’s ten-year contract with Saudi Arabia.
Following the murder of Jamaal Khashoggi, Endeavor gave back money to Saudi Arabia that had previously been invested and cut all ties. Despite those actions, WWE will continue to present bi-yearly, over-the-top shows in The Kingdom. Now, ESPN reports that the second half of TKO Group Holdings, the UFC, is set to do business in Saudi Arabia, as well.
The Fight Night event will occur on March 2, 2024, in conjunction with Saudi Arabia’s Riyadh Season festival. Dana White is set to announce competitors for the card in the coming months. The event is being held in partnership with the Saudi General Entertainment Authority, which has also worked to bring major boxing, soccer, and Formula One racing events into The Kingdom.
WWE will present Crown Jewel next month in Riyadh. Advertising in Saudi Arabia has announced that John Cena will be wrestling on the card alongside other top WWE stars. Roman Reigns will reportedly put his Undisputed WWE Universal Championship on the line against a yet-to-be-announced opponent. That challenger does not appear to be Cena, and many are speculating LA Knight is next in line for a title opportunity.
Haus of Wrestling has partnered with Inside The Ropes to present An Afternoon With Kevin Nash And Sean Waltman on November 25 at Joe’s Live in Rosemont, IL, ten minutes from the All-State Arena. Tickets are now available at JoesLiveRosemont.com.