WWE Staff Stranded at Qatar Airport Amid Regional Airspace Shutdown – Uncertainty continues to surround WWE’s upcoming SmackDown and Night of Champions events in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, following new reports about increased military activity in the region. On Monday, speculation intensified after reports emerged of U.S. fighter jets scrambling over Saudi airspace, prompting questions regarding the safety and feasibility of this weekend’s programming.
As of Monday afternoon, no changes had been communicated to WWE talent regarding travel plans. Wrestlers scheduled to appear in Riyadh were still expected to depart mid-week via a company-organized charter flight. SmackDown will air live from Saudi Arabia ahead of Saturday’s Night of Champions Premium Live Event.
Sources within WWE noted that talent have not received updates from management but assume the company is monitoring the situation closely. Some production employees had already flown out ahead of schedule; however, Bryan Alvarez reported that several WWE staff members are currently stranded at the Qatar airport due to a temporary airspace shutdown linked to heightened regional tensions.
While WWE has not formally commented, all indications are that the company intends to proceed with both events. Locally, there has been no disruption to preparations, and venues remain in active setup mode.
Additionally, Fightful clarified fan speculation about WWE’s pay structure for these Saudi events. Wrestlers no longer receive individual bonuses for appearances in Saudi Arabia. Instead, compensation for international Premium Live Events has been integrated into their guaranteed contracts, eliminating separate appearance-based payouts.
The situation remains fluid, and WWE is expected to respond swiftly should travel or security concerns escalate further in the coming days.
