Before the match, Zayn had expressed uncertainty about the crowd's reaction in Saudi Arabia if he were to win. He received his answer immediately following the pinfall.
The match's conclusion saw Cody Rhodes attempt to deliver the Cross Rhodes to both his opponents. Rhodes connected with the move on Zayn but then sent Gunther out of the ring. As Rhodes prepared for a second Cross Rhodes on Zayn, the challenger skillfully reversed the maneuver into a rollup, securing the three count and the championship. The crowd in Riyadh erupted in celebration following Zayn's unexpected victory.
A miracle in Riyadh,
WWE broadcaster Michael Cole exclaimed during the broadcast, perfectly describing the dramatic win.
The professional wrestling community reacted with widespread excitement for Zayn, often referred to as 'The Last Real Good Guy.' Zayn was visibly emotional, receiving the belt from referee Dan Engler. This monumental win not only marks his first WWE world championship but also solidifies his status as a Grand Slam Champion within WWE.
Reflecting on the achievement, Zayn spoke about his journey:
A lot has been said about me, some good and lately, some bad. A lot of folks said I would never win the WWE championship. But I stand here tonight in front of my people in Riyadh. … It is hard to believe. Oh my God. I’m not usually at a loss for words but …
As fans chanted 'You deserve it,' Zayn acknowledged their support:
You know what? You’re damn right I deserve it. Twenty plus years in the game at the highest level, never got the recognition. Ten plus years chasing this championship, never got the recognition. I don’t care what happens to me tomorrow, next week, next month, next year. Forever, I will be, Sami Zayn, WWE champion.
In a separate incident backstage following the match, Gunther reportedly had a physical altercation with SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis, indicating his frustration with the night's outcome.
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