As WWE continues its global push under the TKO banner, the company’s decision to stage WrestleMania 43 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, has sparked contrasting reactions from within the industry. United States Champion Logan Paul praised the move, while Hall of Famer Eric Bischoff voiced concern over what he sees as a break from tradition.
On his YouTube channel, Paul described the 2027 event as a positive step, noting that some of his career highlights have taken place in Saudi Arabia. He recalled his acclaimed match against Roman Reigns and his United States Title victory over Rey Mysterio at last year’s Crown Jewel.
“WrestleMania 43, so in 2027, is taking place in Saudi Arabia in Riyadh, I believe, which I’ve been to before,” Paul said. “Some of my best moments actually in the wrestling ring have been in Riyadh. The famous photo of me and Roman Reigns looks like a movie poster, that happened in Riyadh. Oh, I won my first title there, the United States Championship in Riyadh against Rey Mysterio.”
Bischoff, however, offered a different perspective. Speaking on his 83 Weeks podcast, he called the decision “disappointing” and argued that WrestleMania is rooted in American culture. He also noted that Vince McMahon himself reportedly had reservations about taking the show overseas.
While acknowledging the financial realities of a publicly traded company like TKO, Bischoff stressed that the move comes with consequences. “It’s reality. TKO is a publicly held company. They have a responsibility to the shareholders… to deliver the biggest return they can to the bottom line,” he said. “But it’s also breaking a tradition, and I can relate to Vince’s concern… to take it outside of the country… is a big move, and it’s going to come with a cost.”
Beyond geography, Bischoff warned that escalating ticket prices could alienate families, long considered the foundation of wrestling’s audience. “What happens 15 years from now, when the kids who used to attend shows with their parents now have kids of their own, and they can’t afford it? It’s just too much… I think I would have voted with Vince on this one.”