WWE’s merger with UFC brought a lot of attention from the business and sporting world. It could also go on to play a part in some global politics as well, because Vince McMahon’s company still has a massive deal in place with Saudi Arabia.
Following the controversial murder of Washington Post reporter Jamal Khashoggi, Saudi Arabia came under fire in a big way. They lost some partnerships over the situation, including one with Endeavor. This could open up a very interesting situation in the future.
The Wrestling Observer Newsletter noted that the current expectation is for Endeavor to ride out WWE’s 10-year deal with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. They agreed to produce 20 events for them, and the belief is that they will let that play out.
“Given that Emanuel and Endeavor pulled out of their business relationships with Saudi Arabia years ago after the murder of reporter Jamal Khashoggi, the belief from WWE is that the current deal will continue through the terms of the current contract, which was for 20 events in total.”
WWE had to miss a couple of Saudi Arabian shows when the pandemic made it impossible to make the trek around the world. Any event that was missed during that time will be tacked onto the end of the end of their 10-year deal.
Endeavor will let WWE and UFC do their own thing, as separate companies led by Vince McMahon and Dana White, respectively. While there could be some overlap later on, it seems that they will also continue with the deals that WWE already has in place, no matter how controversial of a call it might be.
What’s your take on WWE’s merger with the UFC? Will it ruin things the way we know it? Sound off in the comments!