One of the most electrifying WWE nights of the year came to a close this evening (Saturday) at Kingdom Arena in the Saudi capital Riyadh. As part of Riyadh Season, the night featured six world-class matches—some for major titles and others representing turning points in the careers of the participating superstars. The event drew a massive crowd and a wide global audience.
The evening opened with the King of the Ring final, pitting two of WWE’s top stars, Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton, in a clash that embodied a generational showdown. Both wrestlers brought their distinct styles to the ring, and fans eagerly anticipated the result of one of the most prestigious tournaments in WWE history. Rhodes ultimately triumphed after escaping the RKO twice. Orton removed the turnbuckle pad in a bid to gain an advantage, but the move backfired as he accidentally hit the exposed corner. Rhodes seized the opportunity to land Cross Rhodes and secure the win, earning a title shot at Summer Slam.
The second match featured a brutal Street Fight between Rhea Ripley and Raquel Rodriguez. The battle spilled out of the ring and delivered nonstop action. Ripley ended it with a high-impact Riptide from a table positioned on the ring ropes, marking one of the night’s most dramatic and crowd-pleasing moments.
In the third bout, fan-favorite Sami Zayn faced veteran Karrion Kross in a personal, non-title match filled with tension. Despite Kross controlling much of the action, Zayn rallied and pulled off a surprising and emotional victory.
Next, Jacob Fatu and Solo Sikoa squared off in a physical encounter for the United States Championship, marked by intense grappling and powerful exchanges. Sikoa tried to slow the pace to neutralize Fatu’s explosiveness, but as the match progressed, J.C. Matteo interfered, only for Fatu to overcome the disruption. However, the tide turned when Hikuleo made his long-awaited WWE debut, slamming Fatu through the announcers’ table with a chokeslam. Sikoa capitalized with his Samoan Spike, pinning Fatu for the win.
The fifth bout was the Queen of the Ring final, where veteran Japanese icon Asuka faced rising powerhouse Jade Cargill in a thrilling contest of experience versus youth and agility. Asuka came close to victory with a series of strikes and her signature Asuka Lock, but Cargill caught her mid-hip attack and countered with her finisher Jaded, earning the decisive win.
The night culminated in a massive main event for the Undisputed WWE Championship, as wrestling legends John Cena and CM Punk reignited their storied rivalry. The match carried historical weight and high stakes, living up to every bit of its anticipation. Despite multiple interruptions and chaotic moments—including interference from several wrestlers—John Cena retained his title after an assist from Seth Rollins, who disrupted Punk’s momentum and helped secure Cena’s victory. The bout closed an unforgettable night that will be remembered by WWE fans for years to come.