Summary

Mark Shapiro says TKO's business with Saudi Arabia is moving forward as scheduled, including WWE's Night of Champions on June 27.

Speaking during a TKO financials media call, Shapiro addressed concerns about the region and said Saudi partners have confirmed they are not pulling funding from TKO's properties. He added that the company expects the rest of its 2026 Middle East event schedule to proceed as planned.

Quote from Mark Shapiro

"I want to address activity in the Middle East and neighboring markets. First and foremost, we are firmly moving ahead with our scheduled events. UFC returns to Azerbaijan with Fight Night Baku on June 27. That same night, WWE hosts Night of Champions from Riyhad, Saudi Arabia. This historic double header reflects a commitment by our respective partners and us to bring world-class events to fans across the region, even and despite a challenging environment. I would add that PIF withdrawing its funding of LIV Golf, our partners in Saudi Arabia have confirmed that will not be the case with TKO. Their commitment to our properties in 2026 and beyond is unwavering. After these two events, we expect the remainder of our 2026 events in the Middle East, comprised of six events, to take place as planned. The demand is real, our partners are committed, and we are leaning in"

WWE Night of Champions remains on TKO's Saudi schedule

WWE now has a clearer public position on Night of Champions, because Shapiro's comments directly tied the show to Saudi Arabia's ongoing commitment to TKO's event business. That gives the June 27 card a stronger sense of stability, even with the wider regional situation still being monitored.

It also lines up with Nick Khan saying WWE would only go to Saudi Arabia if it is safe for Night of Champions. Taken together, the message from TKO leadership is that the company expects its Saudi partnership to continue, while still keeping an eye on conditions around the event.

Sources

As reported by Fightful