In a little over two weeks, WWE is heading to Saudi Arabia for Crown Jewel . The event is slated to be their next big pay-per-view, but does not come without its share of drama. United States officials, media members, and fans have tried to get the company to hold off on the event, or to cancel it entirely, but to no avail. There have also been reports that numerous superstars are fearful to go to Saudi Arabia. Now, WWE has responded to those claims.
Earlier this week, Inquisitr reported that a number of WWE superstars have expressed that they may be uncomfortable with going to Saudi Arabia. With the country allegedly ordering the kidnapping, torture, and murder of Washington Post reporter Jamal Khashoggi, there are many who won’t feel safe entering the country for Crown Jewel .
WWE superstars who have admitted not being comfortable with going to Saudi Arabia have kept their identities a secret. Wrestling Inc. wanted to know if the company had anything to say about rumors that some of the roster didn’t want to go, and WWE responded with a simple statement.
“As always, we maintain an open line of communication with our performers, as we continue to monitor the situation.”
On this week’s episodes of Monday Night Raw and SmackDown Live , WWE continued to push Crown Jewel — but never said where it was being held. Throughout five hours of television, the country of Saudi Arabia was never mentioned once.
As of Wednesday morning, WWE appears to be moving forward with Crown Jewel as it was originally planned.
Randy Orton is one of the few WWE superstars who has actually spoken out about the controversy surrounding the pay-per-view. TMZ Sports caught up with Orton and asked him whether WWE should still go to Saudi Arabia for Crown Jewel .
“I think we should go. I think the only way to help with change over there is to go and not to cancel the trip. Our girls performed in Abu Dhabi not too long ago and I think we’ll be there eventually with Saudi in the Crown Jewel . That’s the goal, to make things better everywhere, and I think us not going, doesn’t help. Going helps.”
Orton gave a rather simplified answer, and one that will work in his favor. WWE still plans on holding Crown Jewel in Saudia Arabia. As of now, he isn’t even on the card — but he’ll likely still travel there and be in attendance for the event. There is still time for a change of venue if WWE needs to do so — but even with some superstars uncomfortable about going — it appears as if everything will take place as originally planned.