All Elite Wrestling (AEW) champion “Hangman” Adam Page ignited a firestorm of debate online after he publicly criticized the airing of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) commercials during AEW’s flagship show, “Dynamite.” Page’s comments, made on BlueSky, included a strong profanity directed at ICE, highlighting the growing intersection of sports and politics.
Page’s Outburst and Online Reactions
On March 6, 2024, shortly after “Dynamite” aired, Page expressed his discontent by stating, “f*** ICE airing commercials during dynamite, let em know.” He included links for his followers to voice their complaints to HBO Max and TBS, the platforms responsible for airing the show. This bold move caught significant attention, sparking a wave of reactions across different social media platforms.
On BlueSky, a platform known for its left-leaning user base, many praised Page for his outspoken remarks. Conversely, on X, reactions were less favorable, with some users mocking his stance. One user quipped, “I asked them to air more ICE commercials. You’re welcome,” reflecting a sharp division in public opinion regarding the topic.
A Shift in Wrestling’s Political Landscape
AEW has made efforts to distinguish itself from its larger competitor, World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), by embracing more political themes in its programming. While WWE has largely moved towards family-friendly content, AEW has not shied away from controversial topics. This was evident when wrestler Brody King donned an “ABOLISH ICE” shirt during a show in Mexico, further emphasizing AEW’s political leanings.
In contrast, CM Punk, a former AEW star, illustrates the philosophical divide between the two promotions. During his time in AEW from 2021 to 2023, Punk was known for his vocal support of far-left causes, often promoting pro-abortion and pro-transgender rights messages. Since his return to WWE, however, he has refrained from making similar statements during company events, choosing instead to reserve them for his personal social media accounts.
This ongoing evolution in the wrestling landscape showcases how AEW is positioning itself as a platform for more radical political expression, in stark contrast to WWE’s more sanitized approach. As wrestling continues to evolve, the intersection of entertainment and activism remains a compelling narrative within the industry.
The reactions to Page’s remarks highlight the complex relationship between sports figures and political discourse, underscoring how platforms like AEW are navigating these challenging waters. Whether one supports or opposes Page’s stance, it is clear that wrestling remains a vibrant forum for discussion and debate.
