WWE asks fans to cut out swearing at live events, sparks backlash

WWE is reportedly cracking down on foul language at its televised events, with a serious message for fans attending RAW, NXT, and SmackDown tapings - keep it clean or risk removal. The move has stirred debate among fans, many of whom feel their passion is being policed.During a recent episode of Wrestling Observer Radio, veteran journalist Dave Meltzer revealed that WWE has internally discussed addressing live audiences about toning down their language. “It’s a TV show going all over the world,” Meltzer said. “They want fans to have fun, but not swear.”While such a message would have backfired in previous eras, Meltzer believes today's WWE audience is more understanding. “I think they might be okay with it,” he noted, suggesting the company is counting on a more mature fan base to comply voluntarily.But that may no longer be a mere suggestion. Reports from Fightful Select confirm that WWE has already begun enforcing this policy, particularly at NXT tapings held at the Performance Center in Orlando. Fans have been warned not to swear, with repeat offenders threatened with removal from the venue. So far, no actual ejections have been reported.The clampdown comes as WWE prepares for a broader TV presence, with NXT set to debut on The CW Network later this year. A cleaner audience presentation is likely part of that transition.The response from the WWE Universe has been mixed. While some fans see the move as necessary for global broadcasts, others argue it diminishes the authenticity of the live experience.One user on X wrote, “Asking grown adults not to swear like they are children…what is wrong with that company?” Another added, “Even during the PG era, Vince McMahon never told crowds to censor themselves.”Others voiced concerns about the show’s atmosphere. “Trying to watch it when they mute the crowd every time someone chants ‘Holy sh*t’ is worse,” a fan noted.There’s also a growing sentiment that such policies could drive passionate fans toward rival promotions like AEW, which offers a more unfiltered crowd experience. “Time to head over to AEW. They wouldn’t do that to ya,” one post read.As WWE tightens its grip on live crowd behavior, the balancing act between global brand image and fan spontaneity enters a new chapter - one where the next chant might be quieter, but the controversy is anything but.