Ex-WWE Exec Recalls Tense Saudi Deal Trip

A former WWE executive described a tense trip to Riyadh to finalize the business agreement between WWE and Saudi Arabia. He explained that Vince McMahon did not want to make the journey himself. The executive also noted that the company's other co-president at the time, a woman, remained behind due to the added complexity that would have created.

The executive admitted feeling some worry ahead of the travel, despite considering himself a tough individual who had been in many fights. His wife expressed concern as well. The flight followed an earnings call, and the meetings occurred weeks after the widely reported death of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

Upon arrival, the group entered a compound that was pitch black with armed guards present everywhere. The meeting, which was scheduled for 7 PM, did not begin until around 11 PM. It took place in a large room resembling a man cave, featuring multiple large TVs playing YouTube content.

The senior prince involved in the discussions was dressed in boxer shorts and using a hookah. The session opened with the prince yelling at the executive over perceived greediness in the deal terms. The executive then moved to a side room with the prince's top aide to negotiate the specifics of the agreement.

The smaller negotiation room contained overstuffed couches, and guards repeatedly entered and exited carrying small boxes. The executive recalled feeling uncomfortable and joked internally that he might leave in one of those boxes.