Charlotte Flair believes there is importance in WWE holding events in the Middle East.
WWE held its first event in Saudi Arabia in 2014, but one notable aspect of the show was the absence of the women’s roster. This was due to strict laws limiting women’s rights in the kingdom.
In the years following that event, WWE began holding more shows in the kingdom, but it wasn’t until 2019 that a women’s match was finally allowed at that year’s Crown Jewel, where Lacey Evans took on Natalya. There were still restrictions in force, with the women having to wear full bodysuits rather than their normal ring gear, something the women still have to contend with today.
Charlotte Flair Says Women Wrestling In Saudi Arabia Could Inspire The Next Generation
Charlotte Flair made her Saudi Arabia debut at the 2022 Elimination Chamber and has appeared in the kingdom several times since then. During an appearance on WFAN, Flair said it was “awesome” to compete in the Middle East, and she believes it is inspiring for children to see the opportunities women are given at the shows.
“It’s awesome…I mean, we still have to wear the bodysuits, but I think that’s just a step forward in the right direction. For little girls and little boys to see the opportunities that women are given within the ring and see that like, ‘Hey, I could do that!’ It’s so important. It’s bigger than us, it’s bigger than what we do, for sure.”
Flair also commented on the “amazing” crowds in Saudi Arabia, saying she was usually “Wooed instead of booed.”
Despite the current conflict in the Middle East involving the United States of America and Iran, WWE has forged ahead with events in the region, most recently holding Night of Champions in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
