Nia Jax Addresses Fan Criticism Of Her In-Ring Work, Working For The Approval Of An Audience
Photo Credit: Getty Images
Nia Jax is working to get a reaction out of the WWE Universe but sometimes the criticism she faces on social media is too much too take.
Jax recently spoke with talkSPORT‘s Alex McCarthy ahead of WWE Backlash and addressed the backlash she’s received over the years about her in-ring skills. Most recently, fans criticized Jax after she apparently injured Kairi Sane during a ring steps spot in a match taped for RAW.
Jax noted that while she is looking to be booed as a villain, some of the social media comments can get to you as a performer sometimes. Despite that, she says Twitter is a small percentage of the fanbase and she gets a lot more positive feedback from the people she meets in person.
“I feel like every person or character who would say ‘oh, whatever they say doesn’t bother me’ are kind of lying. Because I am working for the approval of an audience. Whether it be hating or loving, I want their reaction.
“So when you’re on Twitter and you see it constantly, it can definitely get to you a little bit. It’s like ‘wow, all I’m seeing is negativity.’ But when I step back and I actually immerse myself into the WWE Universe – like when I get to see the crowd and fans – I know that’s just a small percentage on Twitter who have nothing better to do than hate on somebody.
The fans in real life are so welcoming, so giving and so understanding, I’ve had nothing but positive feedback from them and I’m super grateful for that.”
Jax also discussed coming back from injury, noting that she’s got two healthy knees after surgery and is excited for this weekend’s match. Jax will challenge Asuka for the RAW Women’s Championship and she praised the champion for helping to push herself in the ring.
“Taking the time off to get healthy and fix my knees up really helped prepare me for this because I’ve been just working my butt off just to get back in that ring. I feel the opportunity to face Asuka for the RAW Women’s championship is incredible, I’m ready to take on that title again.
“Asuka is one of the best competitors I’ve ever had the pleasure to work with. She’s such a pleasure to get in the ring with and every time I am in the ring with her, I learn more about Nia Jax’s character and what she’s capable. So I’m really excited about Sunday and what we’re able to do in the ring.”
Related: WWE Bans Signature Move Following Recent Kairi Sane Injury