TKO Group Holdings says WWE, UFC and Zuffa Boxing will continue moving forward with scheduled events in Saudi Arabia and the wider Middle East despite what the company described as a “challenging environment.”
Speaking during Wednesday’s TKO investor call, TKO President and COO Mark Shapiro addressed the company’s plans for the region and confirmed that upcoming events remain on schedule. That includes WWE Night of Champions in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and a UFC Fight Night event in Azerbaijan, both scheduled for June 27.
Shapiro stated that TKO’s partners in Saudi Arabia remain fully committed to future WWE and UFC events despite recent speculation about the country’s sports investments following the withdrawal of the Public Investment Fund’s backing for LIV Golf.
“Our partners in Saudi Arabia have confirmed that will not be the case with TKO,” Shapiro said. “Their commitment to our properties in 2026 and beyond is unwavering.”
He added that TKO still expects six additional WWE, UFC and Zuffa Boxing events to take place across the Middle East later this year.
“The demand is real, our partners are committed, and we are leaning in,” Shapiro said.
WWE President Nick Khan Previously Said They Would Go To Saudi Arabia If Allowed
The comments come just weeks after Nick Khan stated WWE would only return to Saudi Arabia “if it’s safe and if we’re allowed there.” WWE has maintained a major partnership with Saudi Arabia since 2018, regularly hosting premium live events in Riyadh and Jeddah under the company’s long-term agreement with the Saudi General Entertainment Authority.
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