John Cena & Daniel Bryan "Refusing To Work" WWE Crown Jewel?

Another big blow for WWE's controversial Saudi Arabian pay-per-view.

Daniel Bryan John Cena
WWE.com

The controversy surrounding WWE's upcoming Crown Jewel pay-per-view (2 November) just won't go away, and now, it looks like two of the company's biggest stars are taking a stand against the Saudi Arabian show.

Per the usually reliable Robbie Fox of Barstool Sports, the duo are sticking to their principles by "refusing" to compete at the event. This comes on the back of several reports that the roster aren't happy with the show going ahead.

This could have major ramifications on Crown Jewel. Bryan is currently scheduled to challenge WWE Champion AJ Styles after earning his title shot by defeating The Miz at Super Show-Down, while Cena was the first competitor to be announced for the night's World Cup tournament. The PPV can go ahead without them, as Shawn Michaels and Triple H vs. Kane and The Undertaker is being sold as the night's biggest bout, but it'll have ramifications.

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Whatever your opinion on the matter, WWE's relationship with Saudi Arabia will remain a source of controversy for as long as it exists. Though a complete roster rebellion seems unlikely, if the Cena/Bryan story has legs, it may inspire others to make a stand themselves.

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Andy has been with WhatCulture for eight years and is currently WhatCulture's Wrestling Channel Manager. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.