TKO COO Mark Shapiro has confirmed that Saudi Arabia’s financial commitment to WWE and UFC events remains firmly in place despite ongoing conflict in the Middle East, directly addressing comparisons to PIF’s recent withdrawal from LIV Golf.
Speaking during TKO’s financial media call, Shapiro was unambiguous about both the status of upcoming events and the assurances his Saudi partners have provided.
“I want to address activity in the Middle East and neighboring markets. First and foremost, we are firmly moving ahead with our scheduled events. This historic double header reflects a commitment by our respective partners and us to bring world-class events to fans across the region, even and despite a challenging environment.”
He then addressed the LIV Golf comparison directly, drawing a clear line between that situation and TKO’s position.
“I would add that PIF withdrawing its funding of LIV Golf, our partners in Saudi Arabia have confirmed that will not be the case with TKO. Their commitment to our properties in 2026 and beyond is unwavering.”
The double header in question sees both WWE and UFC running events on the same night on June 27. UFC returns to Azerbaijan with Fight Night Baku, headlined by Rafael Fiziev versus Manuel Torres, while WWE hosts Night of Champions from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on the same evening.
TKO expects six additional Middle East events to proceed as planned for the remainder of 2026. WWE President Nick Khan had previously stated the company is monitoring the regional situation, though no changes to the Night of Champions event have been announced or are currently under consideration.
