The “F*** ICE” chants at AEW Grand Slam Australia weren’t only a viral second on tv — and now there’s readability on how the corporate reacted behind the scenes.
Throughout the February 14, 2026 occasion at Qudos Financial institution Enviornment in Sydney, followers loudly chanted “F*** ICE” through the in-ring introductions for MJF vs. Brody King earlier than the principle occasion started. The chants later aired on TNT and MAX through the taped U.S. broadcast, immediately changing into a significant speaking level on-line.
However in response to Fightful Choose, the inner response inside AEW wasn’t one among shock. The report famous that journey logistics performed a task in how data circulated main as much as the present.
“Lots of expertise headed over earlier within the week, however a big quantity flew over after Dynamite. This led to many increased ups and even Tony Khan not listening to in regards to the WBD/Brody King rumors.”
The outlet revealed that a number of AEW sources anticipated the chants to occur — even internationally.
“A quantity AEW sources we spoke to nonetheless anticipated the ‘F*ck ICE’ chants for Brody King, regardless of being in Australia.”
With the chants now occurring at a number of AEW exhibits, together with Dynamite in Las Vegas earlier this month, the state of affairs seems to be one thing firm sources had been already conscious of and getting ready for — relatively than reacting to in actual time.
The larger query now’s what that expectation means transferring ahead. If the chants had been anticipated, was the choice to allow them to air on the taped broadcast merely a part of permitting the dwell environment to face? Or will AEW take a unique strategy if it continues?
Do you suppose AEW dealt with the state of affairs accurately understanding some internally anticipated the chants, or ought to management have taken stronger steps earlier than the printed aired? Share your ideas within the feedback beneath.