WWE began hosting large-scale events in Saudi Arabia as part of a long-term partnership with the Saudi General Sports Authority in 2018. These events are known as the WWE “Crown Jewel” PLE. And “Night of Champions” this year featured male wrestlers from WWE’s roster. However, due to cultural and legal constraints in Saudi Arabia, women wrestlers were not permitted to perform in matches during these events.
The Saudi Arabian government’s cultural and societal norms have traditionally placed restrictions on women’s participation in various forms of public entertainment, including sports events. Nonetheless, later an agreement was passed between the WWE and the government of Saudi Arabia. That allowed female wrestlers to perform during the events.
However, women wrestlers who have performed in Saudi Arabia during WWE events have adhered to certain dress code requirements in accordance with local customs and cultural sensitivities. This typically involves wearing attire that covers most of their bodies. Including long-sleeved shirts or jackets, long pants, and head coverings.
These dress code guidelines have been implemented to respect and align with Saudi Arabian cultural norms. It’s important to note that these dress code requirements apply specifically to WWE events held in Saudi Arabia. And may not reflect the attire worn by women wrestlers in other countries or during different WWE shows.
WWE has made efforts to adapt its production and presentation to accommodate the cultural context in Saudi Arabia. While also aiming to provide an entertaining experience for the audience. Furthermore, WWE has faced criticism from fans and advocacy groups for holding events in Saudi Arabia while adhering to these restrictions.
WWE Universe express their disgust towards the women’s outfits at Night of Champions
This year, WWE continues its tradition of organizing PLEs in Saudi Arabia with “Night of Champions”. And as in the previous events, women are allowed to wrestle only with fully covered clothes. However, fans are not too pleased with WWE adhering to Saudi Arabia’s policies. Take a look at the best reactions from the fans:
Saudi Arabia according to WWE: “holding up centuries of tradition”
You know, like making women cover up nearly every inch of their body because HOW DARE THEY HAVE BODIES
— Mike Straw (@MikeStrawMedia) May 27, 2023
@WWE stop going to the Middle East I’m tired of the women in body suits. I need them half naked frfr!
— Big Bank Wayne (@WayneJrTheGreat) May 27, 2023
@WWE having these women covered head to toe is damn sad. Not saying that Becky Lynch needs to show skin, she obviously doesn’t. But forcing them into literal body suits is super uncomfortable to watch. #NightOfChampions
— Noj (We’re tired) (@averagejon82) May 27, 2023
#NightOfChampions this is why I hate when WWE goes to Saudi Arabia and other places like that. Cuz women have to completely cover up.
— Chris (@Smartass_1995) May 27, 2023
At the Night of Champions PLE this year, there were three women’s matches on the card- Trish Stratus vs. Becky Lynch, Rhea Ripley vs. Natalya, and Bianca Belair vs. Asuka. And well, all six women competitors entered with fully covered outfits as always.