The WWE has faced a lot of scrutiny for proceeding as scheduled with its “Crown Jewel” event in Saudi Arabia in the wake of the mysterious death of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, and at least one superstar may be backing out.
Robbie Fox of Barstool Sports reported on Monday that John Cena and Daniel Bryan are “refusing” to go to Saudi Arabia, while other wrestlers have expressed concern about working the show.
WWE Crown Jewel could be in trouble.
I was just told Reigns is currently injured and that Cena and Bryan are "refusing" to work the show. Many on the current WWE roster have expressed concerned with going, as well, but obviously not all of them have the power like Cena/Bryan.
— Robbie Fox (@RobbieBarstool) October 22, 2018
In his latest episode of “Wrestling Observer Radio,” Dave Meltzer confirmed that Cena is refusing to take part in the Crown Jewel. Meltzer said the WWE creative team was informed on Monday that they need to find a replacement for Cena, according to WrestlingInc.com.
Khashoggi, a Saudi Arabian who lived in the United States, was killed at the Saudi Arabian consulate on Oct. 2. News reports stated that he was murdered and dismembered inside the consulate, and Saudi officials initially said he left alive before admitting he died. They claimed Khashoggi was strangled to death after a fight broke out.
Many politicians and companies have called for Donald Trump to condemn Saudi Arabia in the wake of the incident, but the president said he spoke with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and believes a thorough investigation is taking place.
The Crown Jewel is scheduled for Nov. 2, but there has been talk that it is in jeopardy. Fox said WWE officials have been scrambling in an attempt to find a new location for the event.
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