Amid a tense, U.S.-brokered ceasefire that followed a 12-day military conflict between Israel and Iran, WWE is proceeding with its Night of Champions event in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The decision comes despite significant travel disruptions caused by restricted airspace, forcing talent to take separate flights to the kingdom.
The geopolitical situation escalated from a “shadow war” into direct military confrontations beginning on June 13, 2025, when Israel struck Iranian nuclear facilities. The conflict saw the United States military intervene at Israel’s request with large-scale strikes, and Iran retaliated with missiles aimed at a major U.S. airbase in Qatar. After a final exchange of missile fire, a fragile truce went into effect on June 24.
In an interview with Alfred Konuwa, WWE Hall of Famer Mark Henry strongly defended the company’s choice to continue with the event, distancing Saudi Arabia from the broader regional hostilities.
Saudi Arabia is not the problem or a contributor to the negativity of the world.
He argued that the conflict’s roots are ancient and not something any single modern nation can resolve.
That war has been fought for 3,000 years. You’re not going to change it. I’m not going to change it. Saudi Arabia is not going to change it.
Henry also voiced his confidence in the safety measures provided by the host country, praising its strict approach to law and order and dismissing any concerns for the security of WWE personnel.
They have one of the largest air forces in the world. You don’t want to fight them. You don’t want to do nothing over there that ain’t proper, because they will get you. I believe in that. People can get mad at me all they want to.
He expressed absolute certainty that the WWE roster would be protected.
I’m not worried about anybody. If the WWE goes over there, the full power of the king and his son are going to protect them and keep them safe. Nothing going to happen.
He concluded his defense by sharing his personal experiences, noting he felt a strong sense of welcome in the country.
Every time I went to Saudi Arabia, I felt more at home and welcome than I do a lot of places in America. People say ‘Welcome home, brother!’ Like there’s so many people over there that are brown people that look like you and I.