WWE SmackDown Faces Massive Technical Issues in Saudi Arabia
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.
Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content.
WWE faced massive technical issues on their episode of Friday Night SmackDown before Night of Champions.
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While the show was streaming live for international audiences, the feed suddenly cut out while Randy Orton and Cody Rhodes were having a segment building up their King of the Ring finals match.
Netflix and WWE having Technical Difficulties #SmackDown pic.twitter.com/WrYUU0Iltq — Zachary Peralez (@PeralezZachary) June 27, 2025
However, the issue doesn't lie with Netflix.
There was a blackout in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia that caused power to go out. This not only affected the livestream, but power at the arena as well.
🚨 FEED HAS CUT IN THE ARENA TOO pic.twitter.com/5axgA4YkRB — Zashy 🇵🇸 (@Zashy120) June 27, 2025
"To our international audiences watching [SmackDown]," WWE said on social media. "We apologize for any technical difficulties and should be back up and running shortly."
SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 17: Nia Jax and Bianca Belair in action during Smackdown at Pechanga Arena on January 17, 2025 in San Diego, California.
SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 17: Nia Jax and Bianca Belair in action during Smackdown at Pechanga Arena on January 17, 2025 in San Diego, California.
WWE/Getty Images
Fortunately, the scene was resolved within half an hour after WWE released the statement.
#SmackDown on Netflix is back up and running, and you'll see it in its entirety! https://t.co/WdmwOtW7vx — WWE (@WWE) June 27, 2025
According to a report from Fightful Select, SmackDown will air as normal in the United States.
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For more WWE and professional wrestling news, head on over to Newsweek Sports.
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