On the March 24 edition of WWE Raw, the wrestling world witnessed the in-ring debut of El Grande Americano, a masked luchador who secured a victory over Dragon Lee. While some fans have embraced this new character, complete with merchandise already available, the introduction has not been without controversy.
Mocking Lucha Libre Traditions
Critics argue that El Grande Americano’s portrayal is a mockery of the revered traditions of Lucha Libre. The character’s actions during the match, notably unmasking Dragon Lee—a significant sign of disrespect in Lucha culture—have intensified these concerns.
Use of AI-Generated Content
Prior to his debut, a video package aired, showcasing ‘photographs’ of El Grande Americano’s purported illustrious career in Mexico. Fans quickly identified anomalies typical of AI-generated images, such as individuals possessing more than five fingers. This reliance on AI for content creation has been met with criticism, with many suggesting that WWE should prioritize authentic, human-made content over artificial alternatives. ITR Wrestling
The ‘Gulf of America’ Controversy
Adding to the contention, the video package referenced El Grande Americano hailing from the ‘Gulf of America.’ This term stems from an executive order by President Donald Trump in early 2025, renaming the Gulf of Mexico without consulting neighboring nations—a move that sparked international backlash. WWE’s incorporation of this politically charged term has led to debates about the company’s engagement with divisive political topics. Cultaholic Wrestling+1TheRingReport.com+1ITR WrestlingAwful Announcing
While some defend these choices as strategic methods to elicit strong reactions towards a heel character, the multifaceted controversies surrounding El Grande Americano’s debut underscore the complexities of blending entertainment with cultural and political sensitivities.
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