While the wrestling world turned its eyes to Washington, D.C. for John Cena’s final match at Saturday Night’s Main Event, one of his greatest rivals was halfway across the world. Randy Orton was notably absent from the historic broadcast because he was in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, participating in promotional work for the grand opening of “MrBeast Land.”
MrBeast Land Grand Opening
Orton, accompanied by his wife Kim, appeared at the launch of the massive entertainment destination created in partnership with YouTube sensation MrBeast. The “Viper” was not alone; WWE flew a delegation of top stars to the event, including Liv Morgan, Tiffany Stratton, Grayson Waller, and Omos.
The group appeared specifically at the “Beast Arena,” a competition zone within the massive theme park. This appearance was part of the “Riyadh Season” festivities, a state-sponsored entertainment festival that has become a key partner for WWE in recent years.
Cena’s Final Stand
Orton’s absence was felt by fans during the main event in D.C., where John Cena’s legendary 26-year career came to a close. Cena was defeated by Gunther via submission, tapping out to a sleeper hold.
Given their history, many expected Orton to play a role in the send-off. The two men came up together in WWE’s developmental territory, Ohio Valley Wrestling (OVW), and defined a generation of wrestling with a rivalry that spanned decades. Orton has previously stated in interviews that he would love for Cena to be the one to induct him into the WWE Hall of Fame, describing Cena as a “close friend” whom he “loves to death.” Orton has also referred to Cena as “my generation’s Shawn Michaels” regarding his timing and in-ring ability.
WWE’s Strategic Partnership with Saudi Arabia
Sending a star of Orton’s magnitude to Riyadh during such a pivotal night highlights the importance of WWE’s relationship with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The two entities are currently in a 10-year partnership supporting “Saudi Vision 2030.”
The relationship is set to expand significantly in the coming years. WWE has already announced that the 2026 Royal Rumble will take place in Riyadh on January 31, marking the first time one of the “Big Four” premium live events will be held outside North America. Furthermore, WrestleMania 43 is scheduled to take place in Riyadh in 2027.
نجوم WWE من زيارتهم إلى مختلف المتاجر والتجارب المميزة في منطقة ڤيا رياض ❤️
WWE stars enjoying their visit to the unique shops and experiences at VIA Riyadh ❤️#موسم_الرياض #RiyadhSeason pic.twitter.com/QT98IMWtaZ
— موسم الرياض | Riyadh Season (@RiyadhSeason) December 12, 2025
Pics of @RandyOrton in Saudi Arabia(with wife Kim and with fans)from yesterday. pic.twitter.com/SRQyufGiMv
— #1RandyOrtonSource (@BaltOs1Fan) December 12, 2025
