WWE is set to launch its new five-year media rights deal with ESPN in major fashion this Saturday, September 20, with the debut of WrestlePalooza. The inaugural event features a loaded card, headlined by one of John Cena’s final career matches against Brock Lesnar and the in-ring return of AJ Lee after nearly a decade away.
According to a report from Fightful Select, the decision to stack the lineup reflects more than just the desire to make a strong first impression on a new broadcast partner. The report indicates the strategy is tied directly to the recent announcement that WrestleMania 43 will take place in Saudi Arabia. “Fightful Select was told that was a big reason why WWE has went heavy into WrestlePalooza, the branding, and will likely continue that in future years,” the outlet reported. “Sources in WWE tell Fightful Select that it is being looked at as something that can also help fill the gaps in future years if WrestleMania takes place outside of North America.”
The report also notes that Saudi officials were determined to secure the WrestleMania itself, rather than a one-off special such as 2018’s Greatest Royal Rumble, which accelerated WWE’s need to establish a domestic alternative. That urgency is reflected in a card featuring WWE Champion Cody Rhodes defending against Drew McIntyre and the reunion of The Usos.
With WrestlePalooza set for its premiere at Indianapolis’ Gainbridge Fieldhouse, the message is clear: this is not just another premium live event, but WWE’s first step in shaping its long-term domestic strategy.