Sport: MMA Country: Global Category: Playoffs

TKO employees voice safety concerns over Saudi Arabia events amid conflict

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Nov 11, 2026, 2:00 AM

Last updated Nov 11, 2026

TKO employees voice safety concerns over Saudi Arabia events amid conflict

Summary

Workers at TKO Group Holdings, Inc., the parent company of UFC and WWE, express fear and frustration regarding upcoming events in Saudi Arabia amidst an escalating military conflict. Reports indicate that employees are caught between job security and safety, as the company continues scheduling events despite ongoing attacks. Noteworthy incidents include missile strikes near recent events and a State Department warning prompting evacuation of non-emergency personnel. TKO has not issued communication regarding contingency plans for their scheduled UFC Fight Night on December 5, sparking further discontent among staff.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Key Details

•TKO moves forward with events in Saudi Arabia despite safety fears.
•Staff express concerns over safety and lack of communication from management.
•Recent missile attacks occurred near WWE's Crown Jewel event location.
•State Department advised evacuation for non-emergency personnel in Saudi Arabia.
•UFC Fight Night planned for Riyadh on December 5 remains in doubt.

Latest Updates

2:00 AMYahoo Sports — Inside TKO's Saudi Arabia crisis: UFC, WWE workers speak out as safety fears escalate — 'Everyone just can't believe this'

What they're saying

"
TKO employees say they're being forced to make an impossible choice: Travel to Saudi Arabia amid an escalating military conflict, or risk losing their livelihoods. As the company presses ahead, workers speak of mounting fear, frustration and anger over a perceived disregard for their safety.
— Yahoo Sportsby Ben Fowlkes

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