TKO Group Holdings President and COO Mark Shapiro has made a statement about its partnership with Saudi Arabia regarding WWE and UFC events.
Speaking during TKO’s financial media call, Shapiro addressed questions about the company’s future in the Middle East. He strongly confirmed that WWE and UFC events in the region will continue as planned.
Mark Shapiro says Saudi Arabia has no plans to pull funding from TKO or WWE partnership
The questions came after reports claimed Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund may stop supporting LIV Golf after financial losses since the league launched in 2022.
But Shapiro said that situation has nothing to do with TKO’s relationship with Saudi Arabia. As proof, he pointed to the big June 27 event schedule. On the same night, UFC will hold Fight Night Baku in Azerbaijan, while WWE hosts WWE Night of Champions 2026 in Riyadh.
“I want to address activity in the Middle East and neighboring markets. First and foremost, we are firmly moving ahead with our scheduled events. UFC returns to Azerbaijan with Fight Night Baku on June 27. That same night, WWE hosts Night of Champions from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This historic doubleheader reflects a commitment by our respective partners. Moreover, it allows us to bring world-class events to fans across the region, even and despite a challenging environment,” Shapiro said.
He also said Saudi officials have assured TKO that their support for WWE and UFC will continue beyond 2026. Shapiro also revealed that six more Middle East events are already planned for 2026 after the June 27 shows. According to him, there is still huge demand for live sports entertainment and combat sports in the region. Moreover, TKO plans to keep growing there.
“I would add that PIF withdrawing its funding of LIV Golf, our partners in Saudi Arabia have confirmed that will not be the case with TKO. Their commitment to our properties in 2026 and beyond is unwavering. After these two events, we expect the remainder of our 2026 events in the Middle East, comprised of six events, to take place as planned. The demand is real, our partners are committed, and we are leaning in,” Shapiro added.
WWE has worked with Saudi Arabia since 2018 and regularly holds PLEs there through a deal that currently runs until 2027. Shows like Crown Jewel and Night of Champions have become regular parts of WWE’s yearly schedule.
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