Mark Shapiro on WWE in Saudi Arabia: “The risk is extremely minimal – We are all systems go”

I would just say further, you know, the Vice President comes out today and says it’s very clear voters have spoken, and they’ve obviously spoken with their votes, and we need to get this conflict in Iran wrapped up. So just a week ago, they’re talking about dropping more bombs, and now they’re talking about wrapping it up. Who knows what’s real or what’s true? But we’re just proceeding forward with our partners as if these events will go off without a hitch.

I would just add, for those of you who are concerned about whether this extends further and puts WrestleMania, which is in Saudi next year, at risk, I would just tell you it’s no more risk than it ever was, given that the world is an unpredictable place.

But we have already been paid half upfront and received the funds from our partners in Saudi. If and when our event ever had to be moved, because it would never be canceled, it would be moved, we will certainly and definitely see payment on the other half. So, come rain or shine, we’re getting the other half payment. We’re sitting in a good place.

As far as contingency goes, it’s a long list of cities, primarily in the U.S., that we would move WrestleMania to. Of course, you wouldn’t get the FIP, Stephen, because it would be last minute, but nonetheless, you’d get the sellout. So we have cities lining up, kind of raising their hands, standing willing, ready, and waiting. We’ll cross that bridge when we come to it. But frankly, we’re not concerned.”