Whether you’re a fan of politics or prefer to steer clear, entertainment often offers a refuge from real-world tensions—and pro wrestling is no exception. Despite the chaos outside the ring, simple sports entertainment stories continue to provide an escape. Beyond the usual drama, WWE’s connection with former President Donald Trump has sparked particular interest and controversy.
For many wrestling enthusiasts, allegiance can feel tied to personal beliefs and values. While retired wrestlers like Mick Foley have spoken openly, current WWE talent generally remain quiet. However, that’s changing, with stars like Becky Lynch making subtle political statements and Eva Rae delivering more direct critiques after leaving the company. This raises the question: should more wrestlers follow suit?
WWE and Donald Trump: A Complicated Alliance
- Donald Trump is a WWE Hall of Famer and has made multiple appearances at WrestleMania events.
- He has participated in podcasts alongside Logan Paul and The Undertaker, earning praise from Roman Reigns and Triple H.
- WWE continues to face controversies involving Vince McMahon, its ties to Saudi Arabia, and rising ticket prices.
Trump’s relationship with WWE predated his presidency, including hosting WrestleMania 4 and 5 at Trump Plaza—though he wasn’t physically present—and famously competing against Vince McMahon in the “Battle of the Billionaires” storyline at WrestleMania 23, where McMahon’s head was shaved. This led to Trump’s induction into the WWE Hall of Fame.
During Trump’s first presidential term, WWE kept a low profile politically. But the dynamic shifted in the lead-up to the 2024 election when Trump featured in a podcast with Logan Paul and The Undertaker. After his election, Trump appointed Linda McMahon as Secretary of Education, while figures like Triple H and Roman Reigns publicly praised him. Triple H even worked within Trump’s administration and had a personal relationship with the president.
Opposition to Trump has made supporting WWE problematic for some fans, especially amid scandals surrounding Vince McMahon, ongoing business with Saudi Arabia, and soaring ticket costs under TKO ownership. Despite this, WWE performers have mostly stayed silent, with even once-critical voices like CM Punk participating in international tours without issue.
AEW Wrestlers Are More Vocal
- WWE is often branded as a MAGA-supporting company, whereas AEW is viewed as more progressive.
- Wrestler Brody King wore an “Abolish ICE” shirt on AEW television.
- “Hangman” Adam Page publicly criticized ICE job advertisements aired during AEW broadcasts.
Traditionally, wrestling fans chose promotions based on favorite performers, but increasing political polarization now shapes those choices. With WWE linked to conservative viewpoints and AEW embracing left-leaning, inclusive values—such as openly supporting transgender rights—wrestling allegiances often reflect personal political stances.
AEW has long been a platform for activism. Fans have expressed support for transgender rights at events, and wrestlers like Brody King and Adam Page have taken stands against ICE policies, a stance rarely seen in WWE.
Eva’s Bold Post-WWE Statement Against ICE
- Many former WWE stars such as Mick Foley, Kevin Nash, Jesse Ventura, Jim Cornette, and Batista have openly criticized Trump.
- Becky Lynch shared subtle anti-ICE messages through symbolic gestures and social media.
- Eva voiced sharp criticism of ICE following her departure from WWE.
Some of WWE’s most outspoken Trump critics have been former talent. Despite friendships within WWE’s leadership, figures like Kevin Nash and Batista have not shied away from expressing their views. Mick Foley even suspended collaboration with WWE out of protest during Trump’s presidency.
Current WWE Superstars tend to remain politically quiet, with occasional ambiguous actions—like Becky Lynch wearing Palestinian colors or posting an anti-ice message—that hint at dissatisfaction without direct confrontation.
Perhaps the most striking moment came from Eva, The Rock’s daughter and former NXT general manager, who, immediately after leaving WWE, tweeted a blunt condemnation of ICE and its administration before deleting her social media account. This suggests WWE may restrict its talent from discussing political matters openly, reinforcing silence while under contract.
At AEW’s 2025 All Out Media Scrum, President Tony Khan emphasized support for wrestlers expressing their true selves, highlighting AEW’s welcoming environment for diverse voices.
In contrast, WWE’s leadership and prominent stars tend to support Trump, making it harder for talent to oppose him publicly. Eva’s post-WWE message implies that dissenting opinions may be discouraged internally. With WWE choosing a politically charged path, those working within its ranks must decide whether to speak up or remain silent.
Fan Take:
This ongoing divide between WWE and AEW reflects a larger cultural shift in wrestling fandom, where politics increasingly influence loyalties. For WWE fans, the growing willingness of wrestlers to share their views could reshape the industry’s atmosphere, potentially leading to more authentic, relatable storytelling or deeper internal conflicts that impact the sport’s future.
