WWE Crown Jewel highlights, from Randy Orton singalongs to Oba Femi’s return3

WWE's Crown Jewel took place in Riyadh on Saturday evening, following weeks of uncertainty about the event's go-ahead. Initially planned for the larger Riyadh Season Stadium, the show was moved to the smaller, indoor ANB Arena due to last-minute changes. Despite the venue shift and strict footprint, the 8,000-capacity crowd enthusiastically cheered, chanted, sang, and rose during the evening.

Randy Orton made his entrance in Riyadh, and the entire crowd sang along to his theme song. During the opening match, Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton received full enthusiasm from the crowd as they entered the ring. Their Last Man Standing bout provided more reaction material, which Rhodes won after a brutal contest.

Oba Femi made a surprise return during a chaotic World Tag Team Championship match. Bronson Reed interfered on behalf of champions Bron Breakker and Austin Theory, also known as The Vision. Femi, who wasn't advertised to appear, took out Reed off the stage and through a table, allowing Je Von Evans to pin Theory and secure the titles for himself and Penta.

Chelsea Green triumphed over Raw's Liv Morgan to claim the ceremonial 2026 Women's Crown Jewel Championship. However, she quickly lost the title when Tiffany Stratton cashed in her Money in the Bank briefcase and captured the WWE Women's Championship from Green.

Sami Zayn, a Syrian-born wrestler, finally received the respect he deserved when WWE World Champion Roman Reigns defeated him in the main event. Zayn received the loudest ovation of the night from the regional crowd. After an intense match where Zayn nearly won with a Helluva Kick, Reigns survived two consecutive Spears for the pin.

Reigns then hugged his former Bloodline ally, Sami Zayn, showing respect and marking the end of their long-standing rivalry. The hosting of Crown Jewel in Riyadh provided a significant boost to the city's entertainment calendar after several postponements and cancellations. The winter line-up is now stabilized, with the Six Kings Slam tennis exhibition scheduled for December 27-30, all leading up to WWE's flagship event, WrestleMania 43, set to take place in Riyadh in 2027.