A WWE event in Toronto took an unexpected turn when the Canadian crowd booed the U.S. national anthem, drawing strong reactions.
The incident happened during WWE Elimination Chamber at Rogers Centre when singer Elizabeth Irving performed “The Star-Spangled Banner.” From the start, loud jeers filled the arena, reaching their peak during “and the rocket’s red glare.”
WWE commentator and ESPN analyst Pat McAfee was not happy. As the main show started on Peacock and Netflix, he addressed the reaction.
“This is the most stacked Elimination Chamber WWE has ever had,” he said before calling out the crowd.
“Kinda sucks that it’s in the terrible country of Canada that booed our national anthem,” he shouted, standing up from his seat.
(Of course, WWE is entertainment, so McAfee’s reaction was likely part of the show.)
Later, WWE star Logan Paul, known as a “heel” (villain), walked to the ring waving the American flag. This led to even more boos from the crowd and some middle fingers from fans at ringside.
Viewers quickly shared their opinions on X (formerly Twitter).
“And yet they paid to see an event by an American company. Irony.” one person wrote.
Another added, “The singer did a great job. She stayed professional through the boos. Well done.”
Some questioned WWE’s choice. “Why sing the U.S. anthem in Toronto?” one person asked.
Others brought politics into it. “51st state,” one user tweeted, referencing past comments from Donald Trump about Canada.
Even Irving responded, sharing a Reddit post titled “They booed the hell out of Irving” and adding three laughing emojis.
This is not the first time Canadians have booed the U.S. anthem. At the NHL Four Nations tournament, fans did the same before a USA vs. Canada game.
The backlash has grown since Trump threatened tariffs on Canada, calling it “the 51st state.” With tensions rising, some wonder if this will continue at future events.