Missile hits Riyadh hours after Crown Jewel as TKO employees upset Saudi Arabia shows continue; they say leaders care about anybody's well-being
Riyadh attack follows Crown Jewel
WWE went ahead with Crown Jewel in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, even as the city faced threats connected to the wider conflict in the Middle East. The show concluded without incident.
Hours after it ended, a missile attack targeted the city’s financial district. No WWE performers or staff members were affected, but the attack highlighted the risks of continuing business in the country.
Employees raise safety concerns
Ben Fowlkes reported for Yahoo and Uncrowned that sources across TKO were increasingly frustrated with the company’s insistence on holding events in Riyadh. One anonymous source questioned why the shows were still going ahead and said the decision was tied to potential lost revenue.
The source also argued that company earnings and shareholder returns were taking priority over employee safety. The speaker said, “They don’t care about anybody’s well-being,” while expressing concern about the company’s motives.
Events and Saudi partnership continue
WWE left its announcers and most production staff in the United States for Crown Jewel, bringing a smaller crew to Saudi Arabia. The article questioned why performers and ring crew were considered safe to travel if key personnel were not sent.
UFC is scheduled to hold an event in Riyadh on December 5, and Dana White has dismissed suggestions of moving the Fight Night card. WWE’s long-term relationship with the Saudi government is expected to culminate in WrestleMania 43 in Riyadh next April; the company is reportedly set to receive $150 million for hosting it.
Key points
- Crown Jewel went ahead in Riyadh, and a missile attack targeted the city’s financial district hours later.
- No WWE performers or staff members were affected by the attack.
- Anonymous TKO employees voiced frustration about safety and said financial concerns were driving the events.
- WrestleMania 43 is planned for Riyadh next April, with WWE reportedly set to receive $150 million.