Report: WWE Wants To Change Perception Of Saudi Arabian Shows
Here's why WWE have stacked Crown Jewel 2021 relative to other cards...
WWE wants to change the perception that its Saudi Arabian events are "very big house shows with no longer-term repercussions" with Crown Jewel 2021.
This is according to The Mat Men Pro Wrestling Podcast's Andrew Zarian, who reports that WWE is aware that these events are often viewed as "nothing shows" by fans. With its latest Saudi show, WWE is apparently attempting to fix that, making Crown Jewel 2021 something that viewers feel more compelled to tune in for.
Zarian added that while the Thursday afternoon timeslot isn't great for viewers in the United States, WWE aren't concerned with Peacock viewership when it comes to these events. The promotion makes the same amount of money regardless.
WWE earns approximately $50 million from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for each show held in the country. The promotion is currently contracted for two events per year, though Crown Jewel 2021 (21 October) will be their first since February 2020 owing to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Holding big matches on these shows appears to be part of WWE's strategy for changing their perception, with bouts like Universal Champion Roman Reigns vs. Brock Lesnar and Goldberg vs. Bobby Lashley lined up for this month.