Turki Al Al-Sheikh Claims WrestleMania 43 Will Take Place in Saudi Arabia

Just hours after TKO President Mark Shapiro teased WWE’s global expansion plans, Turki Al Al-Sheikh, the head of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority, claimed that WrestleMania 43 will be held in Saudi Arabia.

Speaking at the Goldman Sachs Communacopia + Technology Conference, Shapiro revealed that TKO is deep in negotiations with cities around the world vying to host WWE and UFC premium live events — with Saudi Arabia firmly in the mix.

“We’re having a lot of conversations — everywhere from Atlanta to Charlotte, you know, to London and Paris. I mean, no shortage of countries similar to F1 that want to see us bring our show to town.”

When it came to what drives those decisions, Shapiro didn’t hold back:

“We’re going to maximize those opportunities both in kind. But most important to me is cash. You know, cash. Cash kills.”

Shapiro also confirmed that TKO is working with both Saudi Arabia and Abu Dhabi to bring another UFC Fight Night to the region, noting:

“We’ve done one before, but we’re embarking upon bringing a second one there. And that should be financially a very good story for everybody involved.”

Shortly after that, Turki Al Al-Sheikh mentioned that WrestleMania 43 will be coming to Saudi Arabia — a bold claim that instantly sent shockwaves through the wrestling world.

This claim lines up with Shapiro’s broader message that every major WWE and UFC property — including WrestleMania — is now open to international deals and site fees, with billions in sponsorship and media revenue on the line.

“UFC is now knocking on the door of $300 million in global partnerships. And then of course WWE is coming up the rear, adding to that. And we should surpass $400 [million].”

With WrestleMania already being pitched like a Super Bowl-level attraction, the idea of Saudi Arabia landing it isn’t far-fetched. However, as of 6PM ET on September 10, 2025, WWE has not officially confirmed WrestleMania 43’s location. The company has remained silent on the claim from Turki Al Al-Sheikh, and no formal announcement has been made by TKO or WWE regarding Saudi Arabia as the host city.

Ringside News will keep you posted as more details unfold.