Several WWE Superstars, including some prominent names, have reportedly expressed reluctance about traveling to Saudi Arabia for Crown Jewel amid concerns about potential safety risks.
According to Fightful Select, multiple talents have made it clear they do not want to participate in the November 7 premium live event because of the potential dangers associated with the trip.
The report notes that one WWE talent indicated some wrestlers who are currently scheduled for Crown Jewel have privately raised concerns with company officials. Those individuals were reportedly assured that their safety would be a top priority throughout the trip.
WWE Reportedly Planning a Smaller Traveling Crew
Fightful Select also reports that WWE is planning to bring a significantly smaller crew to Saudi Arabia than it typically would for an international premium live event.
The company is reportedly looking to limit the number of wrestlers traveling to the country, with very few talents who are not booked for Crown Jewel expected to make the trip.
These reported plans come as concerns surrounding travel to Saudi Arabia continue to draw attention.
Crown Jewel Moves to an Indoor Venue
Crown Jewel was recently moved from Riyadh Season Stadium at the King Abdullah Financial District to The Venue (ANB Arena).
The new venue is an indoor arena with a reported capacity of up to 25,000 spectators. Riyadh Season Stadium, by comparison, was an outdoor venue with a capacity exceeding 70,000.
The venue change comes amid reported disruptions to air travel in Saudi Arabia.
According to a report published Thursday by Business Insurance, approximately 86% of scheduled flights at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh were canceled between October 8 and October 25 amid Houthi rebel attacks targeting Saudi airports, ports, and oil facilities.
The report also noted that the attacks prompted international airlines to suspend services to the Saudi capital through November, while several other major airports across the kingdom experienced significant disruptions.
Crown Jewel Broadcast Details
WWE Crown Jewel is scheduled to air live on November 7, with the event available on ESPN Unlimited in the United States and Netflix internationally.
The broadcast is scheduled to begin at 12:00 p.m. ET / 9:00 a.m. PT.
While WWE has reportedly assured concerned talent that safety will be prioritized, the extent of the reported travel concerns and how they could affect the event remain to be seen.
