The WWE's Night of Champions event in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Saturday was a spectacle of sports entertainment, with a new King and Queen of the Ring crowned and Sami Zayn claiming his first world title. The fallout from the event is set to shake up the Monday night show, Raw, with several high-profile matches and storylines in the works.
Oba Femi's victory as King of the Ring is a significant moment, not only for the wrestler but also for the WWE's global reach. Femi's win gives him the opportunity to call his own shot for a world championship match at SummerSlam, a privilege usually reserved for the top stars. However, the looming presence of Brock Lesnar adds an intriguing layer of complexity to Femi's journey towards the title.
The Bloodline, led by Roman Reigns, is a central focus in the aftermath of Night of Champions. Jey Uso's defeat by Oba Femi is a blow to the family, and his twin brother, Jimmy Uso, is set to face LA Knight in a singles match. Knight has been on a mission to dismantle The Bloodline, and his match with Jimmy Uso could be a pivotal moment in this ongoing storyline.
Iyo Sky's victory as Queen of the Ring is another significant development. Sky's win over Liv Morgan not only cements her status as a top woman's wrestler but also sets up a potential title unification at SummerSlam. Morgan, who was looking to unify her women's world championship with the WWE women's championship, now faces a challenging path ahead.
The WWE's decision to hold the event in Riyadh is a strategic move, leveraging the global reach of the sport to expand its audience. However, the event also raises questions about the WWE's commitment to diversity and inclusion, given the controversial reputation of the Saudi government.
In the lead-up to Raw, the WWE has announced several matches that will shape the show's direction. Oba Femi's opening match is a strategic move to capitalize on his momentum, while Iyo Sky's appearance after calling out Liv Morgan sets up a highly anticipated rematch. Joe Hendry's concert and Chad Gable's singles match with JD McDonagh add to the excitement, but it is the Bloodline storyline that promises to be the most compelling.
The WWE's ability to create compelling storylines and matches is a testament to the skill of its writers and performers. However, the company must also navigate the delicate balance between entertainment and social responsibility, especially when hosting events in controversial locations. As the fallout from Night of Champions unfolds on Raw, the WWE will be putting its storytelling prowess to the test, and the results could have a significant impact on the future of the company and its global brand.
