Now that WWE Night of Champions is about to begin, it’s time to examine the staggering financial numbers that came from the company’s historic agreement with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
In 2018, WWE inked a groundbreaking ten-year agreement, which mandated two events per year in the nation. However, the global pandemic altered the course of events, leading to potential extensions of the contract due to postponed shows.
How much did WWE make from the Saudi Arabia deal?
Astoundingly, recent reports unveil that the Saudi government’s lavish payments to WWE reach a staggering $50 million per event. While WWE basks in the lucrative partnership with Saudi Arabia, its parent company, Endeavor Group, finds itself entangled in a contrasting web of strained relations.
Following the tragic murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, Endeavor chose to sever ties with Saudi Arabia, even returning their massive $400 million investment. Yet, amidst this storm, Ari Emanuel, Endeavor’s figurehead, reportedly commits to honoring WWE’s ongoing contract with Saudi Arabia, recognizing the potential for success.
"Triple H" Paul Levesque at the press conference in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, moments ago thanked King Salman and Crown Price Mohammed bin Salman, prompting an "MBS" chant from the crowd.
He said Night of Champions is the fastest-selling WWE event in Saudi Arabia yet. #WWENOC pic.twitter.com/AhgJhjjwgf
— Brandon Thurston (@BrandonThurston) May 26, 2023
With two events organized annually, WWE reaps a remarkable $100 million each year, solidifying Saudi Arabia as their most lucrative market. Comparatively, even WrestleMania 32, WWE’s monumental event in 2016, garnered a gate of $17.3 million, paling in comparison to the staggering revenue generated from a single Saudi Arabian extravaganza.
Marking another majestic moment in WWE’s partnership with Saudi Arabia, the highly anticipated King and Queen of the Ring event is scheduled to take place on May 27 at the awe-inspiring Jeddah Super Dome. Anticipation mounts for the forthcoming Crown Jewel Premium Live Event (PLE) expected to grace the kingdom’s soil in November.
How has the Saudi-WWE deal gone so far?
Notably, WWE’s previous visit to Saudi Arabia in November featured the gripping clash between Roman Reigns and Logan Paul, as Reigns defended his WWE World titles in the electrifying main event. When rumors surfaced of WWE’s alleged sale to Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), many fans went crazy.
Yet as time passed, it became clear that the stories were false. Engaging conspiracy theorists on social media, theories emerged, suggesting that WWE cunningly fabricated the sales rumors to bolster its demand in the market, captivating potential bidders and elevating its market position.
In this exhilarating dance between kingdoms and rings, Saudi Arabia’s contribution to WWE’s earnings transcends mere financial figures. What is your opinion about this unlikely partnership? Share with us in the comments below!
