Anti-ICE Chant Disrupts AEW Wrestling Match

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A Las Vegas wrestling crowd briefly turned an AEW World Championship Eliminator Match into a political rally, erupting into a loud, repeated, expletive-laced chant targeting US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) that stopped the action. Challenger Brody King, who has recently made President Trump's increased immigration enforcement a focus of his public advocacy, went on to defeat reigning champion Maxwell Jacob Friedman (MJF) in the match.

Why it matters

The incident highlights the growing intersection of politics and entertainment, as well as the influence that athletes and celebrities can have on social and political issues. It also reflects the diverse fan base of AEW, which has cultivated a sizable Latino following, and the charged political climate around immigration enforcement.

The details

Before the opening bell, the crowd in Las Vegas, where nearly 35% of residents are Hispanic or Latino, began chanting the anti-ICE slogan, which was audible on the live TBS and Max broadcast. Cameras captured MJF, the reigning champion, staring wide-eyed into the crowd, seemingly dropping his on-screen persona, while challenger Brody King glanced toward the stands and nodded. King, who fronts the heavy metal band God's Hate, has recently promoted "Abolish ICE" merchandise online, raising nearly $59,000 for the Minnesota Immigrant Rights Action Committee.

• The incident occurred on Wednesday, February 6, 2026 during an AEW World Championship Eliminator Match.
• King's upcoming title match at Grand Slam Australia is scheduled for February 14, 2026.

What they’re saying

What’s next

King's victory in the Eliminator Match sets up a chance for him to challenge for the AEW World Championship at Grand Slam Australia on February 14, 2026.