In a recent conversation with Jan Murphy from the Toronto Sun, promoting WWE Elimination Chamber: Toronto, Sami Zayn offered his insight on WWE’s move towards an apolitical on-screen narrative, outlining the reasons why the company now prefers to keep away from political discourse, and more.
Find below some key takeaways from the interview:
Addressing the question on if the political situation in the US & Canada will affect the show, Zayn stated, “I genuinely don’t believe that it’ll have any significant impact on anything related to the Elimination Chamber. I consider WWE, along with my extended discussions on wrestling as an art form that is a reflection of the world, its history, sociology, and how it mimics societal norms at any given time. The wrestling world has always impeccably represented the political mood of the era. Be it the 90s, with Sgt. Slaughter mirroring the Iraq crisis during the Persian Gulf War, or even earlier in the 50s with Nazi villains. Our villains were direct representations of the political climate at any point in time. Today, in an unexpected twist, we’re effecting an anti-reflection of sorts wherein we don’t meddle with politics as a company.”
When asked on the reason behind WWE steering clear of politics now, Zayn shared, “The product no longer mirrors the political climate. To some extent, this is also a reflection of the increasingly sensitive society we dwell in currently. Moreover, I believe WWE is designed as a sanctuary from all of these real-world affairs, particularly matters that have a daily impact and are not merely abstract concepts. Topics like tariffs have real-life implications that people experience at the grocery store or gas station. WWE, in this context, offers a retreat where all these concerns can be left behind. As politics has bled into mainstream consciousness and has become a form of entertainment in itself – a topic I have much to discuss, but will not right now – WWE’s position has become a haven to shed those concerns and simply enjoy the spectacle. Whoever has bought tickets to the Elimination Chamber is seeking a spectacular show, not a platform for political discourse. And we’re committed to giving them just that.”
NOTE: If you have news tips or podcast recaps that you would want us to feature (full credit will be given), you can send them to [email protected].