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Saudi Powerlifter Fahd Tuwaiq Joins WWE Amid Controversy

1/29/2026

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Summary

Story summary

WWE signed powerlifter Fahad Sahli, who will wrestle as Fahd Tuwaiq, becoming Saudi Arabia's first WWE grappler since Mansoor in 2018.
Fans expect a push for Tuwaiq as the Royal Rumble nears in Riyadh.
Saudi official Turki Alalshikh expressed support for Tuwaiq on social media.
WWE faces criticism over ties to the Saudi government amid rights concerns and Daniel Bryan's refusal to participate.

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Story summary

WWE signed powerlifter Fahad Sahli, who will wrestle as Fahd Tuwaiq, becoming Saudi Arabia's first WWE grappler since Mansoor in 2018.
Fans expect a push for Tuwaiq as the Royal Rumble nears in Riyadh.
Saudi official Turki Alalshikh expressed support for Tuwaiq on social media.
WWE faces criticism over ties to the Saudi government amid rights concerns and Daniel Bryan's refusal to participate.