– There was a ton of controversy that was felt by the WWE this past November, when the company decided to move forward with the Crown Jewel pay-per-view (PPV) in Saudi Arabi, despite the murder of Jamal Khashoggi, Washington Post journalist, as well as other political and controversial turmoil. Many within the WWE Universe disapproved of this decision made by the brand, and even John Cena and Daniel Bryan backed out of the event at different points leading up to the PPV.
Not watching WWE atm due to the whole Crown Jewels thing, but this is exciting!
— William (@caric_lamorian) December 18, 2018
Regardless, reports have surfaced stating that the Saudi Arabia and WWE partnership is still strong, with two events slated for the new year. According to the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, the company is already gearing up for a Saudi event taking place in May 2019, and then one later on in November; much like the two PPVs held this year.
– As per this past Monday Night RAW, Vince McMahon cut a promo with children Shane and Stephanie, as well as Triple H, stating that the McMahons would be taking back control of both the Red and Blue brand shows, no longer needing middle management.
This undeniably affects the climate of both shows moving forward, with Paige no longer working as SmackDown LIVE’s General Manager and NXT debuts into the main roster before they were meant for call ups. One other thing affected by Vince’s so-called RAW announcement was apparently a huge heel turn on the agenda.
As per the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Shane McMahon was supposed to turn heel, but thanks to Monday’s announcement, the character change was cancelled. Apparently, his Best in the World win at Crown Jewel was the start of this heel turn, which was supposed to happen in January 2019; however, because of this new “fresh start” for both RAW and SD LIVE, Shane McMahon will remain a babyface for a while.
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