Sami Zayn is currently a WWE Champion, having achieved the pinnacle of the company after more than a decade of dedication. His crowning moment took place in front of a spirited Saudi Arabian audience at Night of Champions, following victories over Gunther and Cody Rhodes.

While many fans were surprised by Zayn's championship win, it has emerged that WWE's creative team did not finalize this outcome until late in their planning process. However, a plan for Zayn to capture the WWE title was already in place, just not at Night of Champions.

Original WWE Title Plan for Sami Zayn

WWE has demonstrated a capacity for rapid pivots in its storytelling. According to Cory Hays of False Finish, WWE's creative team, under Triple H had initially intended for Zayn to win the championship at WrestleMania next year, also coincidentally scheduled to take place in Saudi Arabia.

Although that would have presented a significant narrative, the involvement of both Cody Rhodes and Gunther in the storyline ultimately elevated Zayn even further, opening up new creative possibilities for the future. Many anticipate a renewed feud between Cody Rhodes and Roman Reigns, while Oba Femi and Sami Zayn are also expected to play prominent roles in upcoming storylines.

Featured names

• Saudi Arabia
• False Finish
• Roman Reigns
• Champions Sami