WWE wrestler Sami Zayn secured his spot at WrestleMania amidst a display of resilience, captivating millions with his unwavering commitment to his customs and religion. While WWE acknowledged his dedication to the sport, fans echoed their admiration for the star's integrity.
The highly anticipated Gauntlet match, featuring six formidable contenders vying for a shot at Gunther's Intercontinental Championship at WrestleMania 40, was a highlight of the evening's event at the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas on Tuesday night. Amidst tough competition from Chad Gable, Shinsuke Nakamura, Bronson Reed, Ricochet, and JD McDonagh, Sami Zayn emerged victorious, standing tall in more ways than one.
Despite being a fan favourite at last year's WrestleMania pre-card, Zayn faced the daunting task of securing his WrestleMania spot this year solely through his performance in the high-stakes six-man match. Undeterred, Zayn threw himself into the battle while adhering to his Ramazan rituals as a devout Muslim.
As Zayn prepared for the match, WWE commentator Michael Cole highlighted the significance of the moment, informing viewers that "today is the first day of Ramadan, Sami Zayn is Muslim. He said he has not been able to eat or drink throughout the day today. You have to wonder if that will affect him in this match".
Today is the first day of Ramadan, Sami Zayn is muslim. He said he has not been able to eat or drink throughout the day today. You have to wonder if that will affect him in this match. - Michael Cole#WWERaw pic.twitter.com/ql0u5LSszj
— GIFSkullX (@GIFSkullX) March 12, 2024
Zayn, whose real name is Rami Sebei, was born to Syrian immigrants in Canada. Last year, he had even visited the holy Kaaba and shared pictures on social media.
The acknowledgment of Zayn's religious observance by the company resonated deeply with fans, who flooded comments sections with admiration for the wrestler's dedication.
I did not even think about Sami Zayn fasting during Ramadan and how that might impact his wrestling.
— Jenny 😻 (@kobidor) March 12, 2024
I love Sami Zayn so much. ❤️
While fans expressed concern over Zayn's performance on an empty stomach, they also lauded his indomitable spirit and unyielding commitment to his beliefs. For many, Zayn's journey to victory served as a source of inspiration, reflecting their own pursuit of success against all odds.
Sami Zayn WRESTLING wrestling while observing Ramadan and fasting... he's so real for that!
— Irene 🍉💜 (@purpaholicfan) March 12, 2024
I really need Sami Zayn to accomplish something big during RAMADAN. Even if he doesnt win this gauntlet I have hope he will accomplish something much bigger InshaAllah☝🏾#WWERaw pic.twitter.com/JXz4cuoz5m
— Raheeb🇧🇩🇮🇹 (@ItzRaheeb) March 12, 2024
In addition to praising Zayn, fans extended their gratitude to WWE for acknowledging the wrestler's religious practices in a heartfelt and unprecedented manner.
I really need Sami Zayn to accomplish something big during RAMADAN. Even if he doesnt win this gauntlet I have hope he will accomplish something much bigger InshaAllah☝🏾#WWERaw pic.twitter.com/JXz4cuoz5m
— Raheeb🇧🇩🇮🇹 (@ItzRaheeb) March 12, 2024
With Zayn now on the cusp of potentially becoming the new Intercontinental Champion, anticipation runs high as fans eagerly await the unfolding of this captivating storyline.
