TKO President Mark Shapiro Talks Saudi Arabia Safety In Company Town Hall Meeting

"We will not hesitate to cancel those events, damned be our budget," said TKO President and Chief Operating Officer Mark Shapiro, regarding alternative measures he and others might have to take regarding its upcoming WWE and UFC events. Following the first town hall meeting held earlier this week, Shapiro has his eyes wide open on the safety of his employees ahead of their travels to Saudi Arabia, starting next weekend. That said, Shapiro is prepared to make changes to any and all upcoming events, should the danger over there continue to escalate.

On Friday, POST Wrestling published audio recordings from its newest company town hall meeting, which Shapiro held to discuss financial implications that could occur should they cancel near and future plans for its events in the Middle East. Shapiro told employees that TKO "will not hesitate" to cancel them if there is "danger or a further escalation" of the region's conflicts.

Additionally, in their hour long Zoom call, Shapiro mentioned that should they pull these events, it will have an impact in a "very negative way." However, his employees and their safety come first, and business comes second.

"Of course, business is important, but humanity is most important," Shapiro explained. "So, this is more about keeping people safe and comfortable. The business is secondary. So, you know, I don't want to talk out of both sides of my mouth here. We want to have the year we all envisioned. We've all worked so hard for that year. [20]26 is shaping up to be that year."

At this time, WWE's upcoming PLE, Crown Jewel, is still scheduled for next Saturday, November 7, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. On Wednesday, it was announced that the show will now be held at The Venue (ANB Arena). Saudi Arabia remains at a level three "reconsider travel" advisory through the US Department of State.