WWE isnt letting global tensions stop business. Despite a tense ceasefire between Iran and Israel and restricted airspace across the Persian Gulf, the company is pushing ahead with Night of Champions in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
The recent conflict, which saw Iran launching strikes on U.S. military targets in Qatar, left several WWE employees stranded in the country as flight paths shut down. After days of uncertainty, those employees finally made it to Saudi Arabia just in time for WWEs loaded schedule.
The situation forced WWE to shake up its usual travel plans. Instead of flying the roster in together, talent is now taking separate flights from different cities to ensure they all make it to Riyadh.
Despite the obvious challenges, WWE never wavered on keeping the event in Saudi Arabia. The company believed there was simply too much at stake to consider relocating. With next years Royal Rumble also set to emanate from the kingdom, WWE sees Night of Champions as its last major opportunity to promote the iconic pay-per-view with the full roster present.
The card is stacked, with Undisputed WWE Champion John Cena set to defend his title against longtime rival CM Punk. The show will also feature the finals of both the King and Queen of the Ring tournaments. Fans will see Cody Rhodes collide with Randy Orton in the mens finals, while Asuka goes head-to-head with Jade Cargill to crown the first-ever Queen of the Ring under Triple Hs full creative regime.
WWE is also bringing SmackDown to Saudi Arabia for the week. The show will air live internationally but be shown on tape delay in the U.S. during its usual 8 PM Eastern slot on the USA Network.
WWEs decision to power through the political drama shows their determination to maintain their massive partnership with Saudi Arabia no matter how complicated the global situation gets.
What do you think about WWE sticking to the plan and running Night of Champions in Saudi Arabia despite all the chaos? Please share your thoughts and feedback in the comment section below.
