WWE Fines Tama Tonga for Posting Rehearsal Video

Former Tag Team Champion Tama Tonga hit with "significant" penalty for violating WWE's unwritten rule against recording backstage footage.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 5:50pm

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Former two-time WWE Tag Team Champion Tama Tonga has been fined by WWE for posting a video of rehearsals ahead of the March 13 episode of "WWE SmackDown" in Phoenix, Arizona. According to reports, the fine was "significant" as WWE has an unwritten rule prohibiting the recording and posting of backstage footage during rehearsals.

Why it matters

WWE places a high value on maintaining the secrecy and mystique of its live productions, and Tonga's video provided fans with a rare glimpse behind the curtain. This violation of WWE's policies could have wider implications for the company's relationship with its talent.

The details

In the 29-second video, Tonga can be seen filming the aisle leading to the ring, with several WWE Superstars, including Cody Rhodes and Solo Sikoa, visible in the background. Tonga then approaches a production assistant and inquires about the doors opening, indicating that fans were about to enter the arena. Though Tonga took the video down, a fan was able to retrieve and repost it online.

  • On March 13, 2026, Tama Tonga posted a video of WWE rehearsals ahead of that night's "SmackDown" episode in Phoenix, Arizona.

The players

Tama Tonga

A former two-time WWE Tag Team Champion who was fined by WWE for posting a video of rehearsals backstage.

Cody Rhodes

The current three-time Undisputed WWE Champion, who was visible in the background of Tonga's rehearsal video.

Solo Sikoa

The leader of the MFT faction, who was also seen in the background of Tonga's video.

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What they’re saying

“Word going around at SmackDown is that Tama Tonga was fined by WWE for posting a video of rehearsals last week. Was told it was significant of a fine.”

— Andrew Zarian

What’s next

It remains to be seen if there will be any further disciplinary action taken against Tama Tonga for his violation of WWE's policies, or if the significant fine will be the extent of the punishment.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the importance WWE places on maintaining the secrecy and mystique of its live productions, and the potential consequences for talent who violate those unwritten rules. It serves as a cautionary tale for other wrestlers who may be tempted to share behind-the-scenes footage with fans.