WWE’s plans for WrestleMania could soon change dramatically, with reports emerging about the possibility of hosting two WrestleMania events each year, one of which may take place in Saudi Arabia. The country, holding a substantial partnership with WWE, currently hosts two premium live events annually and is eager to elevate its status by hosting a WrestleMania, especially with The Rock as the featured star. This consideration comes amid ongoing negotiations and expectations of an announcement from Turki Al-Sheikh, a key figure in WWE’s overseas dealings.
Saudi Arabia’s Ambitions to Host a Special WrestleMania Event
Insider sources, as reported by Fightful Select and the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, indicate that Saudi Arabia’s officials are actively pursuing a major WrestleMania event to happen on their soil. Despite the potential addition of a Saudi-based show, WWE intends to maintain its traditional WrestleMania event schedule elsewhere. The future direction will become clearer following a forthcoming announcement by Turki Al-Sheikh, whose decisions are crucial to WWE’s expansion plans and its international branding strategy. Saudi Arabia’s desire for a colossal show reflects its broader ambitions in the global wrestling industry.
Controversy Surrounding The Rock and WrestleMania 41
While the future of WrestleMania focuses on expansion, there remains speculation over The Rock’s relationship with WWE, particularly concerning his involvement in WrestleMania 41 in Las Vegas. Tommy Carlucci, a former WWE employee, suggested that The Rock may have deliberately undermined the event. Speaking on Behind The Turnbuckle Studios, Carlucci argued that The Rock’s ego motivated him to pull away and let a controversial performance by Travis Scott overshadow the show, potentially reflecting deeper tensions within the company.
“I think he sabotaged WrestleMania, Coach. He sabotaged. And then they put that Travis Scott on, and then he knew that he was going to s**t the bed and people were going to crap all over it, but he doesn’t care, man. It’s his ego. He’s got an angle for everything,” Tommy Carlucci said.
Next Steps and the Future Impact on WWE’s Global Presence
The unfolding situation leaves many questions about WrestleMania’s trajectory and The Rock’s role moving forward. If Saudi Arabia solidifies its position as an annual WrestleMania host with The Rock returning as a headliner, WWE could significantly boost its international profile. However, uncertainties around talent relations and event management persist amid speculation and insider commentary. The announcement from Turki Al-Sheikh will likely be pivotal in determining whether WrestleMania’s expansion into Saudi Arabia becomes a reality and how this shift will influence WWE’s global strategy.
