In Riyadh, Liv Morgan stunned WWE fans by winning the women’s Royal Rumble, while Roman Reigns secured victory in the men’s match during the historic event held at the newly constructed KAFD Arena. This marked the first time the Royal Rumble was integrated into Riyadh Season and became the first key WWE show—one of the “Big Five”—to take place outside North America. The Liv Morgan Royal Rumble victory adds to the exciting developments on the road to WrestleMania, setting the stage for an unprecedented chapter in WWE history.
Saudi Arabia’s Growing Role in WWE’s Global Expansion
Traditionally recognized as the opening event leading to WWE’s marquee WrestleMania, the Royal Rumble’s appearance in Riyadh reflects WWE’s expanding international footprint. Saudi Arabia is also preparing to host WrestleMania 2027, which will be the first WrestleMania staged beyond North America. This expansion complements WWE’s signing of Fahd Tuwaiq, the first heavyweight wrestler from Saudi Arabia, who expressed deep pride in representing his nation within the global wrestling arena.
I am truly proud to be part of this company and my government’s support for me as always.
?Fahd Tuwaiq, WWE Wrestler
Tuwaiq, inspired by Hall of Famer The Undertaker, aims to leave a mark in WWE and urged fans to watch his journey closely. His entry symbolizes the growing involvement of Saudi talent in sports entertainment, enhancing local interest and international diversity in WWE.
Memorable Matches Elevate the Night’s Excitement
The event opened with the women’s Royal Rumble featuring top competitors like Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss, before moving on to the high-stakes bout between The Ring General Gunther and AJ Styles, known as The Phenomenal One. With Styles’ career on the line, the bout captivated audiences as Gunther secured a submission victory, avenging a previous loss to Styles and thrilling fans who stayed on edge throughout the match.
Another highlight was the WWE Championship clash between champion Drew McIntyre and Sami Zayn, a Syrian Canadian star. The Saudi audience vocally supported Zayn with chants familiar from local football, although McIntyre successfully defended his title. Afterwards, McIntyre praised the passionate crowd and acknowledged the significance of hosting such a major WWE event in Riyadh.
You can’t call this (Royal Rumble) a test run, this is huge, this is a moment. The Rumble match is going on and I couldn’t care less who wins,
he stated, projecting confidence ahead of WrestleMania 42 in Las Vegas this April.
Implications for WWE’s Future and Saudi Arabia’s Wrestling Ambitions
Liv Morgan’s unexpected Royal Rumble victory alongside Roman Reigns’ win marks a pivotal moment as WWE continues to globalize its signature events. Hosting the Royal Rumble as part of Riyadh Season and planning WrestleMania 2027 in Saudi Arabia underscores the kingdom’s growing influence in professional wrestling. The emergence of Saudi talent like Fahd Tuwaiq highlights the country’s commitment to shaping this evolving landscape. This trajectory suggests that WWE will deepen its partnership with Saudi Arabia, offering fans worldwide fresh narratives and athletes that reflect the sport’s expanding reach.
