WWE Terminates Broadcast Relationships with Russia After Invasion of Ukraine

WWE announced Thursday that it has terminated its television and streaming deals in Russia amid the country's ongoing military invasion of Ukraine.

In a statement, the company noted that its partnership with Russian broadcaster Match has ended and WWE Network will no longer be available in Russia, effective immediately.

WWE added that the move means weekly shows like Raw, SmackDown and NXT will no longer be available in Russia, nor will pay-per-views such as the upcoming WrestleMania 38.

In addition to the United States and many other governments condemning Russia's actions, several sports governing bodies across the world have done the same.

Notably, the International Olympic Committee asked governing bodies to cancel or move any major sporting events they have scheduled to occur in Russia or Belarus.

The most significant body to comply was European football organizer UEFA, which moved the 2022 Champions League final from St. Petersburg to Paris. Also, FIFA announced that Russia will not be permitted to compete in the 2022 men's World Cup.

On Thursday, Formula One racing announced the dissolution of its partnership with the promoter of the Russian Grand Prix, which has been a part of the race calendar since 2014.

WWE severing ties with Russia comes at a significant time on the WWE calendar, as the biggest pay-per-view of the year is on the horizon.

WrestleMania 38 will be a two-night affair on April 2 and 3, emanating from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

A title unification bout between universal champion Roman Reigns and WWE champion Brock Lesnar is set to be one night's headliner, with Ronda Rousey vs. Charlotte Flair, Becky Lynch vs. Bianca Belair and Edge vs. AJ Styles also among the marquee matches.