10 Times Controversy Inspired WWE Changes

10. Saudi Arabia Plane Halting Throws NXT Into The Spotlight

I mean, if you were one of the few who hadn't seen just how goddamn amazing NXT's weekly television programme was, the chances are you got the surprise of a lifetime when the black and gold brand decided to invade SmackDown in November 2019.

But this wasn't always the plan and if it hadn't been for some sketchy circumstances, we might not have ever got one of the greatest impromptu episodes of wrestling television in modern history.

Despite WWE's claims that a flight containing nearly 200 WWE stars and employees was being held on the tarmac due to 'aircraft problems including mechanical issues', the truth was a little more concerning.

Apparently, Saudi Arabia had failed to pay Vince McMahon millions of dollars for some of the previous Saudi super shows, so McMahon felt the need to stop the television feed for Crown Jewel being broadcast in the country - leading to a 40-minute delay of the live show in Saudi households.

Thanks to the retaliation of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, talent were stranded for 24 hours - surrounded by military police - and were understandably p*ssed off that McMahon managed to take off on a private jet before the chaos had ensued.

It all worked out in the end as the talent made it home safely, but this controversial incident opened the door for NXT to make a hell of a statement and the stars of tomorrow did just that.