Despite heightened geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, WWE is moving forward with its scheduled trip to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia for this weekend’s Night of Champions Premium Live Event.
The concerns stem from U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities over the weekend, an escalation in the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel. Iran’s foreign minister has issued warnings of “consequences,” prompting questions about the safety of international travel to the region—especially for high-profile events such as WWE’s upcoming shows.
In an update provided by Mike Johnson of PWInsider.com, WWE’s talent and production crew began their journey to Riyadh on Tuesday evening. The chartered flight, which left Miami, Florida around 5 PM Eastern, carried most of the roster scheduled to appear on Friday Night SmackDown and Night of Champions.
According to the report, John Gaburick, WWE’s long-standing liaison for its Saudi Arabia events and a key figure in international production, flew out from Riyadh earlier this week to personally accompany the crew back to the Kingdom. His presence was reportedly meant to offer reassurance to the talent, emphasizing that the trip would proceed under normal conditions, similar to WWE’s previous excursions to the region.
Gaburick’s involvement is seen as a measure to maintain calm and confidence among the roster amidst concerns of regional instability. WWE has not made any public statement suggesting a change in plans.
Night of Champions is scheduled to take place this Saturday, June 29, in Riyadh and will feature several marquee matches, including the finals of the King and Queen of the Ring tournaments.
For continued updates on WWE’s international travel and Night of Champions coverage, stay tuned to PWMania.com.
