WWE is reportedly planning to bring retired legends back for WrestleMania 43, scheduled to take place in Saudi Arabia in 2027. This move is part of the company’s ongoing partnership with Saudi Arabia, where major wrestling events have been held since a deal was signed in 2018. The WrestleMania 43 Retired Legends Return is gaining attention as the promotion aims to create a star-filled card for the event.
Saudi Arabia’s involvement with WWE dates back to their 10-year strategic agreement, which has brought premium live events to the region despite some public controversy over the country’s political climate. The Royal Rumble is already set to be hosted in Saudi Arabia next year, and WrestleMania 43 will mark another significant occasion in their collaboration.
Saudi Arabia Will Finance High-Profile Returns Without Budget Concerns
Discussions on Wrestling Observer Radio between Bryan Alvarez and Dave Meltzer highlighted that Saudi Arabia is willing to invest heavily to ensure WrestleMania 43 is packed with marquee names. According to Meltzer, financial considerations will not limit the country’s ambition to secure top-tier talent, including big-name retired wrestlers who might return for the event.
“They’re (Saudi Arabia) paying the money for it. And they have matches that they want, and they’re working really, really hard to get. You know, so even though it’s a couple of years, I don’t know if they’re going to be able to get them, but they’re going to spend a lot of money to get what they want. Obviously, I mean, [Alvarez: Are we talking about a lot of people coming out of retirement?] Yes, we’re talking about anyone coming out of retirement that wants to come out of retirement of a big name value will be able to get a lot of money for the show. Yes, that’s what they want.”
—Dave Meltzer, Wrestling Observer Radio
Meltzer elaborated that the Saudi hosts have specific matches they want to arrange and are willing to pay a premium to make those possible. Still, he was uncertain if all targeted wrestlers would agree to return, despite the enticing financial offers. This openness to bringing back retired legends underscores the event’s potentially historic nature.
Potential Dream Matches Featuring Wrestling Icons
Alvarez speculated about the possibility of legendary matchups, such as The Undertaker versus Shawn Michaels or Stone Cold Steve Austin facing The Rock, which would fit the high-profile approach Saudi Arabia is championing for WrestleMania 43. However, Meltzer clarified that none of these specific matches were confirmed, though many of the mentioned wrestlers would likely be contacted about participating.
“[Alvarez: So we’re talking there’s going to be Undertaker versus Shawn Michaels. Stone Cold versus The Rock, is that what we’re looking at here?] We’re not looking at those. Neither of those specific matches have I heard. But yes, some of those people will. I would presume all those people will be contacted and the ones who want to do it, if they want, will be able to. I some of them may not want to do it, but the ones who have any interest in doing it, or any interest in a great payday, they’ll be able to get it on that show.”
—Dave Meltzer, Wrestling Observer Radio
This indicates that while the exact card is still uncertain, there is strong intent to make WrestleMania 43 a major spectacle by involving legendary figures, appealing to fans who have followed these icons throughout their careers.
Background on WWE’s Saudi Partnership and Event Plans
Since the partnership began in 2018, WWE has repeatedly held events in Saudi Arabia, including the highly anticipated Saudi Crown Jewel and previously Royal Rumble. The decision to bring WrestleMania, WWE’s flagship event, to Saudi Arabia reinforces the significance of this relationship and the investment both sides are willing to make.
Previously, WWE announced WrestleMania 42 is set for Las Vegas in 2026 at the Allegiant Stadium, reflecting the company’s strategy to host major events in global venues. The announced dates for WrestleMania 42 are April 18 and 19, 2026, showing WWE’s commitment to expanding its live event presence.
Time to double down.#WrestleMania returns to @AllegiantStadm in Las @Vegas on April 18 & 19, 2026!🎟️ Register to be the first to receive presale info: https://t.co/MdbkHpjGPApic.twitter.com/k3JOCdBWCh
—WWE Official Twitter, June 8, 2025
Significance of Retired Legends Returning to WrestleMania 43
The potential return of retired WWE legends to WrestleMania 43 highlights the company’s recognition of their long-term fanbase and the nostalgic appeal these wrestlers hold. Their participation could significantly boost interest in the event, both in Saudi Arabia and worldwide.
Saudi Arabia’s financial commitment will likely help WWE fulfill these ambitions, even if only some of the retired stars choose to return. This strategy might generate buzz, rekindle rivalries, and create historic moments by blending current competitors with celebrated veterans.
Fans and industry insiders will be watching closely as the event approaches to see which iconic figures step back into the ring and how WWE balances legacy with its future storytelling approaches. WrestleMania 43’s setting in Saudi Arabia will continue the company’s evolving global outreach, using established names to fuel excitement and international interest.
