The Rock in Talks for WWE WrestleMania 43 in Saudi Arabia—Record-Breaking Deal on the Horizon?
WWE may be about to shake the wrestling world like never before. Reports suggest that Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson is in advanced negotiations to headline WrestleMania 43, which for the first time ever will take place outside the U.S.—live from Saudi Arabia.
According to the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, sources close to Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority (GEA), led by Turki Alalshikh, believe the deal with The Rock is nearly finalized. While WWE has yet to make anything official, the buzz is that this could be the biggest payday in pro wrestling history.
Insiders reveal that the entire financial structure of WrestleMania 43 could hinge on Johnson’s involvement. If signed, his main event spot would reportedly bring him a payout “multiple times” larger than any wrestler has ever received—cementing his place not only as The People’s Champion but also as the highest-paid star in wrestling history.
The Rock last competed at WrestleMania 40 in Philadelphia, where he teamed with Roman Reigns against Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins before playing a dramatic role in the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship match. That appearance generated massive mainstream buzz and supercharged WWE’s business—proof that wherever The Rock goes, ratings and revenue follow.
Saudi Arabia already hosts two WWE premium live events annually as part of its long-term partnership with the company. But bringing WrestleMania to Riyadh marks a massive global expansion—and if The Rock headlines, it could be the most talked-about WrestleMania of all time.
As of now, WWE has not officially confirmed The Rock’s status, but an announcement for WrestleMania 43 is expected soon. One thing’s certain: if The Rock signs on, WrestleMania 43 will make history—in more ways than one.
