By John Q. Hosedrinker 
During an All Elite Wrestling event in Las Vegas, fans unexpectedly disrupted a match with an “F— ICE!” chant, seemingly in protest of President Trump’s immigration policies. Wrestler Brody King, known for his outspoken activism against ICE, appeared to acknowledge the crowd’s sentiment. This incident highlights the ongoing friction between certain wrestling fandoms and political figures, particularly given Trump’s long-standing ties to the professional wrestling industry, including his induction into the WWE Hall of Fame and his past collaborations with WWE executives.
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The roar of a pro-wrestling crowd, a visceral wave of sound and emotion, recently amplified a potent political sentiment, a collective expletive directed squarely at the Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency, often abbreviated as ICE. This wasn’t just background noise; it was a resounding “F*** ICE” chant that reverberated through the arena, effectively body-slamming the very idea of the agency in the minds of many attendees. It’s a stark illustration of how deeply held convictions can manifest in unexpected public forums, even within the theatrical world of professional wrestling.
The intensity of this specific chant highlights a growing dissatisfaction with ICE’s operations, a sentiment that seems to have found a particularly vocal home within the AEW (All Elite Wrestling) fanbase. Unlike other promotions that may maintain a more distant stance on political issues, AEW appears to be a breeding ground for outspoken criticism. Multiple wrestlers on the AEW roster have publicly condemned ICE, both on-screen and in their personal capacities, contributing to the charged atmosphere that led to the widespread chanting.
This distinction between wrestling organizations is noteworthy. While one promotion, WWE, is perceived by some as being closely aligned with the current political administration, AEW is seen as standing in opposition. This perceived alignment has, for some fans, created a clear demarcation, making AEW a preferred platform for expressing anti-establishment and progressive viewpoints. The very fact that ICE is running advertisements during AEW programming, only to be met with such vociferous opposition from the audience, underscores the network’s inability to control the narrative once the show begins.
The wrestler Brody King has emerged as a particularly prominent figure in this anti-ICE movement within AEW. His willingness to wear “Abolish ICE” shirts and even yell the expletive into the camera after matches has resonated deeply with fans who share his sentiments. This direct engagement from performers significantly amplifies the crowd’s own feelings, transforming a general sentiment into a unified, audible protest. The impact of such actions is undeniable, as it brings the political discourse directly into the wrestling ring and the fan experience.
For longtime fans of AEW, witnessing this outpouring of support for their favorite performers and their messages is a source of pride and validation. It suggests that the company’s progressive leanings and its more liberal fanbase are not only recognized but also embraced. The contrast drawn between AEW crowds, described as more progressive and less aligned with MAGA ideology, and those of WWE further solidifies the idea that AEW is cultivating a distinct identity, one that resonates with a segment of the wrestling community disillusioned with the political leanings of other major wrestling entities.
The sheer volume and unity of the “F*** ICE” chants demonstrate that these sentiments are not fringe opinions but rather a significant force within the AEW audience. The chants were not a vague murmur of dissent but a clear, unified declaration, indicating a shared passion and a strong moral stance. This collective expression of disapproval suggests a powerful “mob mentality,” albeit one directed at a government agency rather than an individual wrestler, signifying that the crowd was not playing around with their message.
The use of the term “body-slammed” in headlines, while not literal in its depiction of physical action, metaphorically captures the overwhelming and decisive nature of the crowd’s sentiment. It’s as if the collective voice of the fans physically overpowered any attempt to present a neutral or supportive stance towards ICE. This metaphorical “body-slam” speaks to the power of public opinion and the ability of a unified crowd to make its voice heard, even within the context of entertainment.
The comparison drawn between this event and the potential for similar chants at major sporting events like the Super Bowl underscores a desire for broader public arenas to embrace moral stances. The sentiment expressed is that if wrestling fans, known for their passion and engagement, can find the courage to chant such a strong message, then other mainstream platforms should also possess the “balls and morality” to do the same, creating a more consistent and widespread public rejection of policies they find objectionable.
The perception that AEW is the “non-MAGA WWE” with a genuine focus on wrestling, rather than being intertwined with political agendas, further bolsters the argument for its appeal to a progressive audience. The implication is that AEW prioritizes the art of professional wrestling itself, while also fostering an environment where performers and fans alike can express their political and social beliefs without fear of reprisal or alienating a significant portion of their base. This creates a space where “sickos” – a term used to describe the passionate AEW fanbase – are not seen as being aligned with harmful ideologies but rather as deeply engaged fans with strong convictions.
The existence of Brody King’s merchandise, explicitly featuring “F*** ICE,” serves as tangible evidence of this movement’s momentum and the AEW leadership’s tacit approval, or at least tolerance, of such expressions. It moves beyond isolated incidents to become a recognized element of the brand. This direct commercialization of the protest amplifies the message and allows fans to outwardly display their solidarity with the anti-ICE sentiment, further embedding it within the AEW culture.
The narrative around AEW’s leadership, particularly Tony Khan, suggests a genuine commitment to creating an inclusive and progressive environment. While acknowledging that no organization is perfect, the perception is that Khan, as the head of AEW, is a well-intentioned individual who understands wrestling and surrounds himself with a roster that largely reflects left-leaning values. This provides a foundation for the strong anti-ICE sentiment to flourish organically within the company.
Ultimately, the “F*** ICE” chants at the pro-wrestling event represent more than just a fleeting expression of discontent. They signify a powerful convergence of entertainment, activism, and political sentiment, demonstrating the evolving role of professional wrestling as a platform for social commentary and the growing assertiveness of fans in voicing their opposition to policies they deem unjust. The metaphorical “body-slam” delivered by the crowd is a clear message: the current approach to immigration enforcement has generated significant and vocal opposition, even within the vibrant and often theatrical world of professional wrestling.