WWE, the global powerhouse in professional wrestling, is reportedly extending a special invitation to Cristiano Ronaldo, the superstar of Al Nassr football club, to make a guest appearance at their Premium Live Event, Crown Jewel. This move aims to attract a massive audience and elevate the event’s prestige, according to Spain’s Diario AS.
The wrestling conglomerate has been strategically expanding its fan base in the Middle East since 2018, thanks to annual Crown Jewel events held in the region. Following the acquisition of WWE by Endeavor, the parent company of UFC, the organization is keen on capitalizing on the potential revenue and reputation boost by securing Cristiano Ronaldo’s presence.
However, as the world knows, securing Ronaldo’s participation in such a grand event won’t come cheap. Negotiations with the Portuguese football sensation will undoubtedly involve a substantial financial agreement. Over the years, WWE has seen various celebrities from different fields, including athletes like Wayne Rooney, Floyd Mayweather, and Tyson Fury, grace their stage.
This time, there’s speculation that Cristiano Ronaldo might take on the role of event host, a common duty bestowed upon special guests. The Premium Live Event is scheduled for November 4th and was hosted at Al Nassr’s Mrsool Park last year.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s appearance is sure to lend credibility to WWE and draw an even larger viewership. The global superstar’s presence is a guarantee of ticket sales, as recently seen when he and his Al Nassr teammates were welcomed by thousands of fans in Tehran, Iran, on September 18th.
Ronaldo’s Saudi Pro League team faced off against Iran’s Persepolis in the AFC Champions League Group E match on the night of September 19th. Al Nassr secured a comfortable 3-0 victory, thanks to two goals in the second half.
According to Al Jazeera, throngs of fans followed Ronaldo’s flight closely as it touched down at Imam Khomeini International Airport. Thousands of supporters gathered and cheered for the Portuguese icon as soon as the team disembarked.
Many fans donned Al Nassr jerseys with Ronaldo’s name on the back, hoping to catch a glimpse of their football hero. However, they had to maintain a safe distance from the famous star and couldn’t witness his team’s clash with Persepolis, as the Iranian club had to play in an empty stadium due to COVID-19 restrictions imposed in 2020.
Ronaldo, a five-time Ballon d’Or winner, has had an impressive start in Saudi Arabia, tallying 21 goals and 7 assists in 25 appearances across various competitions. In the current season, he continues to shine, with 7 goals and 5 assists in six different matches.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s potential WWE debut at Crown Jewel is generating immense excitement among fans of both football and wrestling. If this crossover happens, it could be a game-changer for WWE, solidifying its status as a global entertainment phenomenon.
