As noted before, WWE held their Crown Jewel 2021 event this past Thursday in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
PWInsider’s Mike Johnson reported that the general backstage mood was one of happiness over the feeling that this year’s event was one of the better major events they have produced over the past year based on those spoken to within WWE.
In regards to the Undertaker, Johnson reported that he was not seen backstage during the event. The reason for Undertaker’s appearance in Saudi Arabia this week reportedly solely was to act as the guest announcer for Pitbull’s musical concert.
In regards to 2021 Olympic silver medalist Tarek Hamdi, Johnson reported that his sources stated that Hamdi had “absolutely fallen in love with the entire process and showmanship of WWE today.” Several people spoken to stated that they currently believe he will be someone who will get a look by the company in the future once he’s done with competitive karate.
Johnson also reported that the talent who were brought over for the trip were given more freedom to travel around Riyadh and go out to eat. WWE talent reportedly were given private access to a bowling alley and a movie theater for leisure activities.
Adam Pearce, TJ Wilson, and Chris Park reportedly were the producers for the event’s matches.
Johnson also reported that WWE is currently planning a potential return to Saudi Arabia somewhere during the first quarter of 2022.
Dave Meltzer reported in this week’s Wrestling Observer Newsletter that WWE generated a legit sold out attendance of around 5,500 based on his sources within the company.
Meltzer also reported that WWE’s Crown Jewel 2021 event generated around 200,000 searches on Google, which is around the range for a WWE non-Big 4 event, and a #2 ranking for that day.