The finish saw Zayn roll up Rhodes during an attempted CrossRhodes maneuver, achieving the decisive one, two, three count. This outcome, however has generated considerable controversy among a segment of the WWE fanbase online.

On social media platforms, numerous fans have voiced strong disapproval of the decision, directing criticism towards WWE and Triple H. Some fans expressed disappointment that a potentially significant moment for Zayn was perceived as being 'wasted' on an international stage, despite the positive reception from the Riyadh crowd.

Fan Reactions and Criticism

The backlash manifested in various online criticisms. One fan wrote on X, “Unfollowed WWE. Unsubscribed to Netflix. Triple H with the worst decision of all time. Hope Sami Zayn loses the title before the end of the year.”

Another fan suggested the company was “pandering to Saudi sponsors and shareholders” in reference to Zayn’s religious background. Accusations that Triple H had “stooped to a new low” were also prevalent.

Further commentary included:

This Sami Zayn push needs to be studied. Weirdest c, p I’ve seen in a minute.

This Sami Zayn push needs to be studied. Weirdest c, p I’ve seen in a minute.

One fan deemed the booking “terrible,” while another claimed that “nobody outside of Saudi Arabia wanted to see this happen.”

Future Storyline Potential

Despite the fan outcry, the new championship reign opens up several fresh storyline possibilities. The win could set up Oba Femi to challenge Zayn for the title following his King of the Ring victory, a scenario that would also protect both Cody Rhodes and Gunther from losing directly to Femi.

Additionally, the ongoing Bloodline 2.0 storyline presents opportunities to revisit Zayn's history with the faction, potentially leading to a rematch with Roman Reigns for all the gold.