Anti-ICE chant erupts at AEW pro wrestling show in Las Vegas, pausing main event match - NBC News
AEW Fans Chant Anti-ICE During Pro-Wrestling Match
On Wednesday night, fans at an All Elite Wrestling (AEW) match in Las Vegas broke out into an anti-ICE chant, briefly pausing the pro-wrestling action. The incident occurred during the AEW World Championship Eliminator Match.
Background on ICE and Its Impact
The Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency has been at the center of controversy over its immigration policies and practices in recent years. Many have expressed concerns about the treatment of migrants and asylum seekers, as well as the impact of ICE's actions on communities across the United States.
The Incidents at AEW
According to eyewitnesses, the anti-ICE chant broke out during a commercial break in the match. The chant was not directed towards any specific individual or group, but rather seemed to be a general expression of opposition to ICE and its policies.
The crowd's reaction caught the attention of the wrestlers, who paused the match for several seconds as fans continued to chant. The incident sparked a lively debate among attendees, with some expressing support for the anti-ICE message and others criticizing it as divisive or uninformed.
Reactions from AEW and WWE
All Elite Wrestling (AEW) officials have declined to comment on the incident, but several wrestlers took to social media to express their opinions. Some, like Chris Jericho and Jon Moxley, seemed to support the anti-ICE message, while others, such as Kenny Omega, expressed reservations about its implications.
Context: AEW's Stance on Social Issues
All Elite Wrestling has made a point of featuring wrestling matches that focus on social issues and promote inclusivity. The promotion has also used its platform to advocate for various causes, including LGBTQ+ rights and racial equality.
While the anti-ICE chant was not explicitly condoned by AEW, it reflects a growing trend in professional wrestling, where fans are increasingly using their voices to speak out against social injustices.
The Role of Social Media
Social media played a significant role in shaping the narrative around the incident. Fans and commentators alike took to Twitter and other platforms to discuss the chant, with some expressing outrage and others defending its message.
Possible Explanations for the Incident
Several factors may have contributed to the anti-ICE chant during the AEW match:
- Growing tensions over immigration policy: The ongoing debate over immigration reform and the treatment of migrants has created a polarized environment in which some individuals are more likely to express dissenting views.
- The power of social media: Social media platforms have given fans unprecedented access to amplify their voices, often leading to unexpected and sometimes provocative reactions.
Conclusion
The anti-ICE chant during the AEW match highlights the complexities of social issues in professional wrestling. While some fans may view the message as divisive or uninformed, others see it as a necessary call for change.
As the debate over immigration policy continues, it is likely that more incidents like this will occur. By examining these events and engaging with their underlying causes, we can better understand the complexities of social issues in professional wrestling.