WWE release statement on Saudi Arabia event following “heinous crime at Saudi consulate”

The WWE plans to go ahead with its scheduled event in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia despite recent human rights complaints against the country.

A statement published by the company on Thursday acknowledges the apparent murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi at the Saudi consulate offices in Istanbul. Nevertheless, the organisation has confirmed that the 2 November event will go ahead. The statement, which was released within the business' Q3 2018 results, reads: "WWE has operated in the Middle East for nearly 20 years and has developed a sizable and dedicated fan base. Considering the heinous crime committed at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, the Company faced a very difficult decision as it relates to its event scheduled for November 2 in Riyadh". "Similar to other U.S.-based companies who plan to continue operations in Saudi Arabia, the Company has decided to uphold its contractual obligations to the General Sports Authority and stage the event. Full year 2018 guidance is predicated on the staging of the Riyadh event as scheduled". The Saudi Arabia event was already the source of controversy, as no female wrestlers are permitted to perform at the event. Sports Illustrated has also reported that several WWE stars are reluctant to travel to Saudi Arabia following the incident in Turkey.