TKO President Mark Shapiro tries to balance safety and business in messaging to staff ahead of WWE & UFC events in Saudi Arabia

Key Points:

• TKO CEO Mark Shapiro emphasized the critical importance of successfully staging WWE and UFC events in Saudi Arabia to meet 2026 financial goals, warning that cancellations due to regional conflict escalation would severely impact the company’s performance.
• Despite recent attacks in Riyadh and a U.S. travel advisory, WWE’s Crown Jewel event remains scheduled for November 7 with a venue change to an indoor facility, and UFC and Zuffa Boxing also have upcoming events planned in Riyadh.
• Shapiro and UFC COO Lawrence Epstein affirmed that employee safety is paramount and stated TKO will not hesitate to cancel Middle East events if there is danger or further escalation, prioritizing human safety over business concerns.
• WWE President Nick Khan highlighted strong ticket sales for major upcoming fights, including Tyson Fury vs. Anthony Joshua, and noted WWE’s growth in audience engagement and talent development, while also discussing TKO’s reliance on financial incentives from host cities.
• TKO is actively pursuing legislative support for centralized boxing operations through the Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act and exploring expansion opportunities, including enhancing its Orlando operations and staging its first event in Africa.