During the build to WWE’s last two shows in Saudi Arabia, the commentary team and Superstars cutting promos have very rarely name-dropped the country over fears of backlash.
WWE already receives a lot of stick for putting on shows in the Middle Eastern nation, so they felt that drawing unnecessary attention to it could turn the crowd against a segment.
Ahead of Crown Jewel next week, WWE stars have been saying “Saudi Arabia” a lot on TV in promos and backstage segments. Many thought that this was an accident and not something the company wants.
However, Dave Meltzer is reporting that WWE higher-ups have had a change of heart and now want to name-drop the country in any promos to build to Crown Jewel.
On the matter, Meltzer had the following to say on Twitter:
“They want it said. Saudi is bringing them all these acts in to whitewash their image. They didn’t mention Saudi the previous two shows because they felt they couldn’t. Now they feel they can. Eventually they had to because they couldn’t keep getting paid otherwise”.
Nope they want it said. Saudi is bringing them all these acts in to whitewash their image. They didn't mention Saudi the previous two shows because they felt they couldn't. Now they feel they can. Eventually they had to because they couldn't keep getting paid otherwise. https://t.co/r5rZi79b6s
— Dave Meltzer (@davemeltzerWON) October 26, 2019
Of course, it should come as no surprise that WWE has been forced in mentioning Saudi Arabia on TV to ensure that they keep their very lucrative ten-year deal with the country.
WrestleTalk.com will have live coverage of the Crown Jewel show this week featuring matches from former UFC Heavyweight Champion Cain Velasquez and undefeated boxer Tyson Fury.
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