WWE terminates partnership with Russian broadcaster, pulls WWE Network from Russia

As noted by Newsweek and other outlets, World Wrestling Entertainment has widely been accused of helping Saudi Arabia "sportswash" its human rights record by holding events in the country. 

WWE went in a different direction Thursday as a result of Russia's invasion of Ukraine that has drawn criticism throughout the world. 

"WWE has terminated its partnership with Russian broadcaster Match and shut down WWE Network in Russia effective immediately," the professional wrestling company announced in a brief statement. "The move eliminates access in Russia to any WWE programming, including the company’s weekly 'Raw,' 'SmackDown' and 'NXT' shows, its on-demand library, and all of its premium live events, including 'WrestleMania 38.'"

WrestleMania 38, a two-night event, is occurring at AT&T Stadium, home of the NFL's Dallas Cowboys, on April 2 and April 3. 

WWE has joined forces with several other organizations that have distanced themselves from Russia since the country first invaded Ukraine on Feb. 24. On Wednesday, EA Sports announced that the Russian national team and all Russian clubs would be removed from its popular "FIFA 22" title and also that Russian and Belarusian national and club teams would be pulled from the "NHL 22" game "within the coming weeks." 

Belarus has reportedly been a launch point for Russian personnel and equipment entering Ukraine. 

Also on Thursday, the International Paralympic Committee reversed course and announced that athletes from Russia and Belarus would be prohibited from competing in the upcoming Winter Paralympics in Beijing.