Triple H: "We’ve been part of the change in Saudi Arabia since the beginning"

WWE and Saudi Arabia reached a multi-year agreement in 2018 through which the company owned by Endeavor committed to holding two PLEs per year in the Asian country. These shows represent a significant economic income for WWE, but also a reason for criticism, as there are many fans who do not believe that the company should maintain commercial relationships with an oppressive country.

Arabia, on the other hand, has been very open in recent years, showcasing its country and culture through a multitude of top-level sporting events, including boxing evenings, football competitions, and much more. A move that has been pointed out by many as a simple strategy to whitewash its image to the outside world. 

However, Triple H believes that Saudi Arabia is in the midst of change, and has expressed pride in WWE having been alongside the Asian country from the beginning in this task. This was explained by WWE's Chief Content Officer in a recent appearance on The Pat McAfee Show.

"That has been their goal from the beginning: to change their perception, to change who they are, to open that umbrella for women and for the country. That takes time. You can't just do all that at once, or you'll end up alienating all the people involved who have long-held beliefs. You have to do it over time. I really believe that, to initiate change, you have to be part of it. You can't stand on the sidelines saying, 'We're not going to participate in that because those people don't do things right.' You have to be there and be part of that change. We have been part of that change from the beginning," Triple H said.

WWE can take credit for having achieved that its female superstars can compete regularly in the shows the company holds in Saudi Arabia. However, the female wrestlers must enter the ring without showing more skin than their faces. A condition imposed by the authorities of the Asian country to not offend their culture. While this decision is applauded by some, for others it is insufficient, as they consider that women are still being denigrated with these measures.

WWE held its latest PLE in Saudi Arabia (Night of Champions) on June 28, where John Cena had his final match in the Asian country as part of his retirement tour. That same show also witnessed Cody Rhodes being crowned as King of the Ring. WWE will return to Saudi Arabia next January to hold one of the most anticipated PLEs of the year, Royal Rumble.