Dave Meltzer Explains How WWE Won’t Lose Money If Crown Jewel Moves Locations

As previously reported, there have been questions surrounding this year’s WWE Crown Jewel 2026 event and whether it will still take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, as originally planned.

The US Department of State recently issued a level three travel advisory for the country, advising citizens to reconsider plans to travel to the country. Some areas in the region are also under a level four advisory, which means U.S. citizens are being advised to leave the country, in fear of Iranian drone and missile strikes.

During today’s edition of Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer commented on the situation, explaining how WWE won’t take a huge financial hit if the event is forced to move locations. Speaking on the travel advisory, Meltzer commented, “It’s an advisory. They’re afraid of attacks from Iran. And so, the Yemen border, which is about 500 miles away, that’s actually banned for travel. Whereas this one, it’s basically a warning that it is unsafe for Americans to travel there.”

When co-host Bryan Alvarez commented on WWE having about $60 million on the line for its payout for the show, Meltzer commented that WWE will just add another date to its current contract with the Saudi General Entertainment Authority.

He explained, “The reality is that if somehow they can’t go, they just add another date at the end of the contract. So in the end, it’s not like it’s going to cost them any money. I mean, it will delay the $55-60 million, but it’s not like it’s going to cost them that by doing it later.”

The Current Fate of WWE Crown Jewel 2026

As noted, WWE has yet to announce any changes for the November premium live event. WrestleVotes Radio on Fightful Select reported that the event is expected to move forward on November 7 as planned, regardless of the location, as WWE committed to that date for ESPN.

For now, WWE Crown Jewel 2026 is advertised for Nov. 7 at the Riyadh Season Stadium at KAFD in Saudi Arabia.