Seth Rollins was once criticized by many WWE fans for his involvement in events held in Saudi Arabia. The company has increasingly hosted major shows there, a move some fans have condemned, labeling the financial gains from such partnerships as "blood money."
In a recent appearance on Mohr Stories, Rollins expressed a change in perspective, urging fans to move past their grievances regarding WWE’s Saudi contract. He acknowledged WWE’s controversial presence in the region over the past six years, saying, "When I first went in 2019, I was doubtful too. I wasn’t sure how to feel about it." However, after experiencing the culture firsthand, he noticed significant progress. Initially, women were absent from both the audience and backstage at these events, but now WWE shows in Saudi Arabia resemble their global counterparts, with full participation from female fans and staff.
Rollins also pointed out that WWE isn’t alone in collaborating with Saudi Arabia. The government is striving to establish itself as an entertainment hub, attracting numerous big brands across different sectors. Companies from various entertainment industries have embraced this opportunity, partly due to the cultural shifts occurring in the region. While some people still find these partnerships unacceptable, WWE and others see signs of positive change that justify their involvement.
Even if WWE were to eventually cease working in Saudi Arabia, Rollins believes the cultural progress made so far is an important factor. He now stands among those who view the relationship as contributing to meaningful development in the area.
Fan Take: This update from Seth Rollins helps fans understand the evolving dynamic between WWE and Saudi Arabia, highlighting the positive changes behind the controversial partnership. It signals a shift in wrestling’s global landscape and suggests that the sport might play a role in influencing social progress in new markets.
