It looks a lot like a locomotive. WWE is full speed ahead when it comes to the WWE Crown Jewel in Saudi Arabia this weekend despite the controversy surrounding it. And according to TKO executive Mark Shapiro, there’s little reason to worry about the impact situation WrestleMania 43 next year in Saudi Arabia. During TKO’s final earnings call, as transcribed by FightfulShapiro discussed WrestleMania, and while he admitted there are backup plans, he believes the show will take place in Saudi Arabia, in part because WWE has already received money from the country for the show.
“I’ll just add for those of you who are concerned that if this is extended longer, does this put WrestleMania next year in Saudi Arabia in jeopardy, I’ll just tell you it’s no more in jeopardy than it’s ever been, given that the world is an unpredictable place,” Shapiro said. “However, we have already received half in advance and we have received funds from our partners in Saudi Arabia, and if and when our event ever has to be moved, because it will never be cancelled, we will certainly and definitely see payment on the other half, so come rain or shine, we will get the other half.”
“So we’re sitting in a good spot, and as far as contingency goes, it’s a long list of cities, mostly in the US, that we’ll be moving WrestleMania to. Of course you won’t get FIP because it will be last minute. But we’ll be sold anyway. So we have cities waiting on their hands. that bridge as we approach it, but frankly, we’re not concerned.”
Shapiro’s optimism appears to have been largely born out of Vice President J.D. From Vance’s tweets on Wednesday. On Twitter, Vance blamed the ongoing war in Iran for a large number of Republican losses in the midterm elections. As such, Shapiro took it as a sign that the conflict in Saudi Arabia may soon be over.