WWE SmackDown Live Saudi Arabia electrified fans on June 27, 2025, at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, delivering a historic night as the go-home show for the Night of Champions premium live event. This marked the first time the blue brand aired from Saudi Arabia’s capital, captivating audiences with high-stakes title matches and intense rivalries. Despite a 30-minute blackout that tested the production team, the event showcased WWE’s resilience and star power, setting the stage for an unforgettable weekend. From championship defenses to heated promos, here’s everything that went down in Riyadh.
A Historic Night for WWE SmackDown Live Saudi Arabia
The Kingdom Arena buzzed with energy as WWE SmackDown Live Saudi Arabia kicked off with a face-to-face between Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton. Their segment, steeped in their storied history as former Legacy members, set a fiery tone for the Night of Champions. However, a power outage in Riyadh disrupted the Netflix feed for international viewers, leaving fans frustrated for nearly half an hour. While the screen displayed a “Pardon the delay” message, Orton kept the live crowd engaged by “yeeting” with them, showcasing his charisma. Once power returned, announcers Michael Cole and Wade Barrett apologized, ensuring the show went on seamlessly.
The night featured three title matches, each delivering heart-pounding action. Tiffany Stratton defended her WWE Women’s Championship against Nia Jax in a brutal Last Woman Standing match. Stratton’s resilience shone as she overcame Jax’s onslaught, retaining her title with a dramatic swanton bomb through a table. The Wyatt Sicks challenged the Street Profits for the WWE Tag Team Championship, bringing their eerie dominance to the ring. Meanwhile, Zelina Vega faced Giulia for the Women’s United States Championship, a match that had fans on edge with its fast-paced exchanges.
Title Matches Steal the Show
The WWE SmackDown Live Saudi Arabia card was stacked with championship clashes. Tiffany Stratton’s battle against Nia Jax was a highlight, with both women pushing their limits. Jax dominated early, tossing Stratton into steel steps and wielding kendo sticks. Stratton rallied, landing a crossbody and swanton bomb to secure the victory. This win solidified her reign, though Naomi’s looming Money in the Bank cash-in added intrigue for Night of Champions.
In the tag team division, the Wyatt Sicks’ Joe Gacy and Dexter Lumis faced the Street Profits. The horror faction’s unsettling presence rattled their opponents, but the Profits held their ground. The match featured high-flying moves and nearfalls, keeping the Saudi crowd roaring. While the outcome kept fans guessing, the Wyatt Sicks’ momentum suggests they’re a force to watch.
The Women’s United States Championship saw Zelina Vega defend against Giulia. The newcomer Giulia showcased her technical prowess, hitting a top-rope missile dropkick and a Northern Lights Bomb. Vega fought back with a Meteora and Code Red, but Giulia’s knee strikes proved too much. Rumors swirled that Giulia might claim the title, adding to the match’s intensity.
- Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton opened with a heated promo, interrupted by a 30-minute power outage.
- Tiffany Stratton retained the WWE Women’s Championship in a Last Woman Standing match.
- Wyatt Sicks challenged Street Profits for the Tag Team Championship.
- Giulia faced Zelina Vega for the Women’s United States Championship, with title change rumors.
John Cena and CM Punk Ignite Rivalries
John Cena’s appearance on WWE SmackDown Live Saudi Arabia was a major draw, as he addressed CM Punk ahead of their Night of Champions clash for the Undisputed WWE Championship. Cena, basking in a thunderous ovation, called himself a “genius” and Punk a “loser,” reigniting their legendary rivalry. Punk countered by mimicking Cena’s early 2000s “Doctor of Thuganomics” persona, delivering a rhyming promo packed with insider jabs. The segment ended with Punk dropping the mic and posing on the barricades, leaving Cena fuming.
Elsewhere, The Bloodline storyline advanced with JC Mateo taking on Jimmy Uso. Solo Sikoa’s orders to Mateo to “show Jimmy what it’s like to have no family” fueled the match’s intensity. Uso’s uppercuts and chops couldn’t overcome Mateo’s relentless offense, setting up further drama for Night of Champions.
Overcoming Challenges in Riyadh
Despite the technical hiccup, WWE SmackDown Live Saudi Arabia proved the company’s ability to adapt. The power outage, caused by a local issue in Riyadh, affected the entire production, including the control room. WWE’s quick response, with stars like Rhodes and Orton engaging the live crowd, minimized the disruption. The show aired on USA Network at its usual 8 p.m. ET slot in the U.S., while international fans watched live on Netflix at 7:30 p.m. Saudi time.
The event also highlighted WWE’s strong partnership with Saudi Arabia, part of a 10-year deal with the Ministry of Sport. With Night of Champions looming, the go-home show delivered on hype, blending athleticism and storytelling. Fans are now buzzing about potential title changes and the Cena-Punk showdown.
What’s Next for WWE in Saudi Arabia?
WWE SmackDown Live Saudi Arabia set a high bar for Night of Champions on June 28. The event’s success, despite logistical challenges like regional tensions and airspace concerns, underscores WWE’s commitment to its Saudi partnership. With the Royal Rumble slated for 2026 in the Kingdom, expect more blockbuster moments. For now, fans are glued to the fallout from SmackDown’s title matches and rivalries.
Tune in to Night of Champions on Peacock in the U.S. or Netflix internationally to see how these stories unfold. Share your thoughts on the epic night in Riyadh in the comments below or on social media!