TKO faces potential $70–$90 million hit if Crown Jewel and other Saudi events are cancelled

TKO, the Stamford-based promotion, is confronting uncertainty over whether WWE Crown Jewel 2026 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, scheduled for November 7, will go ahead amid growing security concerns. Latest reports say TKO is continuing with its Saudi Arabia plans and work on the event is already under way despite the uncertainty.

The company stands to make substantial revenue if the Crown Jewel show takes place, but cancellation would dent quarterly profits, according to reporting. In a recent edition of the Wrestling Observer radio, Dave Meltzer said TKO may lose between $70 million to $90 million in its quarterly profit if three events which were scheduled to happen in the region—one WWE and two UFC events—are cancelled. Meltzer mentioned this would be about a quarter of the company’s profit per quarter.

The estimated $70 million to $90 million shortfall refers to the combined impact of three events, not Crown Jewel alone. That collective figure captures the potential loss of profit from one WWE premium live event and two UFC shows scheduled in the region.

The situation requires TKO to weigh operational and reputational considerations alongside financial commitments. The Stamford-based promotion needs to consider the safety of its performers and employees while at the same time considering its business obligations to Saudi Arabia, and the issue has implications beyond the individual events.

Another related point noted by the report is that WrestleMania 43 is scheduled for Saudi Arabia in 2027. The company has described that as the first time the flagship event will be organized outside North America.

The coverage specifies that the present estimates concern the next three shows and do not imply TKO would forfeit the full amount if events are rescheduled. As of now, the news of any cancellation or relocation has not been confirmed by either party.

As of October 23, 2026, there is no official announcement over the cancellation or relocation; Crown Jewel 2026 remains scheduled for November 7 in Riyadh, although security concerns continue to create uncertainty.