The ongoing conversation surrounding political expressions in professional wrestling has gained new traction following the recent “F**k ICE” chants that resonated during Brody King’s matches in AEW. This chant began during a February 4 event in Las Vegas and resurfaced in Sydney, creating a spectacle that is resonating far beyond the wrestling ring. The phrase was directed against U.S. President Donald Trump’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) policies, sparking discussions about the intertwining of wrestling and politics.
While specific match outcomes remain under wraps for fans eager to tune in for tonight’s broadcast of Grand Slam Australia, the political atmosphere has already sparked considerable debate. The chants are likely to be edited out of the aired version on TNT and HBO Max, as AEW seeks to maintain a neutral image amid ongoing political discussions. This is notable as Wrestling Observer’s Dave Meltzer previously reported on speculation suggesting that AEW’s media partner Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) pressured the organization regarding the politically charged outbursts. Both WBD officials and AEW president Tony Khan have refuted these claims, emphasizing no direct orders were issued regarding the incidents.
A recent article from CNN, which is owned by WBD, sheds light on the corporate dynamics at play, confirming WBD’s stake in AEW. This connection has fueled the narrative that AEW aligns more with liberal ideals compared to its competitor WWE, traditionally viewed as more conservative due to figures associated with its legacy, such as Donald Trump. CNN’s coverage discusses how the use of contemporary political issues adds a new layer to the longstanding rivalry between AEW and WWE.
The nuance surrounding the “F**k ICE” chants is further complicated by expert opinions in the CNN article, particularly from theater professor Eero Laine, who suggests that the chants are not necessarily reflective of the wrestlers’ beliefs but rather resonate with a broader political sentiment from the audience. Meltzer notes that both AEW and WWE strive for a neutral stance, wary of alienating fans with political affiliations.
As this situation unfolds, it raises significant questions about how AEW will navigate its branding in relation to public sentiment about immigration and other hot-button issues. With a considerable portion of the audience potentially divided along political lines, AEW faces a crucial decision: whether to embrace the publicity that comes with these protests or tread carefully to avoid alienating fans who may support opposing views. The evolving landscape of political discourse in wrestling continues to be a gripping topic for fans and analysts alike, with potential implications for both promotions moving forward.