WWE’s global expansion is taking its biggest step yet, but one WWE Hall of Famer believes the move is less about breaking new ground and more about financial reality setting in.
Speaking on Busted Open Radio, Bully Ray said he wasn’t surprised by the announcement that WrestleMania 43 will take place in Saudi Arabia in 2027. According to him, the company has hit a ceiling with its domestic audience, with rising ticket prices making it harder for the average fan to attend live shows.
“I’m not shocked at all. Not that I expected it, I’m just not shocked because of what WWE is doing with their ticket prices. People are now getting to the point where they’re b—tchin,’ moaning, complaining about the ticket prices. It seems like little by little, the average family, the average joe, is struggling to afford tickets to a WWE show, even though they’re sold out. But it’s getting harder. Eventually, you’re gonna cap out, and people aren’t gonna be able to afford your show, and you’re gonna start seeing empty seats. Where is money not an issue? Money is not an issue there [Saudi]. Saudi, it’s gonna be the first time WrestleMania is on that side of the planet. The Saudi government is gonna pay out the wazoo, and they won’t blink an eye.”
The move to Riyadh will mark the first time WrestleMania is held outside North America, a landmark decision officially announced by WWE Chief Content Officer Triple H and Saudi officials as part of the country’s Riyadh Season festival. This expands a partnership that started in 2018 and will also bring the Royal Rumble to the kingdom next year.
For Bully Ray, the reasoning is straightforward: as WWE pushes further into international markets, the affordability for its loyal domestic fanbase is becoming an increasingly serious concern.