Why The WWE’s Use of ‘Savages’ for the Bloodline is Deeply Problematic

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In terms of professional wrestling, particularly within the United States context, it’s quite plausible that no narrative holds as much significance or expansive impact as that of The Bloodline. This saga started a few years back with the supremacy of then-Undisputed WWE Champion Roman Reigns and his cousins, but has since evolved into a family conflict that has left its mark on virtually every other story in the promotion, and still does so today.

For enthusiasts such as myself, each episode of Raw, Smackdown, and forthcoming WWE events have become essential watchings. However, as a person of color, there’s one recurring aspect regarding the Bloodline that continues to trouble me in their portrayal.

First, I Am A Big WWE Fan And Love The Bloodline Story

I didn’t develop a strong interest in sports entertainment until I witnessed the thrilling spectacle of Wrestlemania 40. Since then, I’ve consumed countless hours of WWE content, which, if added together, would likely earn me a place in some global record book. My fascination with it is largely due to the captivating tale of the Bloodline.

This captivating narrative not only impacts historic wrestler Roman Reigns and his relatives such as Main Event Jey Uso, Big Jim Jimmy Uso, but also significant WWE figures like current champion Cody Rhodes, Kevin Owens, Sami Zayn, CM Punk, the stylish Seth Rollins, Drew McIntyre, and even The Rock – though his role is somewhat perplexing in this context. Many are either immersed in it or grappling with its consequences. To put it simply, I’m utterly enthralled by the Bloodline and the direction WWE is heading. I can’t get enough!

However, I’m Very Bothered By How The New Bloodline Are Often Called “Savages”

Following Reigns’ loss of his title, Solo Sikoa, another relative, decided to part ways with The New Bloodline. This split paved the way for Tama Tonga, Tonga Loa, the Samoan Werewolf (Jacob Fatu), and others to join forces with him. Their purpose was to bolster his position and keep him both feared by the roster and in control of power.

Instead of being more vicious than the OTC Bloodline, they’re significantly more brutal, and with Sikoa having succumbed to Reigns for now, Tonga and Fatu, particularly the latter, are causing chaos by devastating wrestlers whenever opportunity arises. The depiction as unbeatable behemoths is clear, but each time a commentator labels them “savages,” it triggers an uncomfortable response within me as a Black woman.

The reason for the concern lies in the fact that there are figures with white heels (a symbol often associated with WWE) who carry out actions that are deemed horrible, despicable, or terrifying. However, these individuals are rarely referred to as “savage.” This term has a troubling historical connotation, as it was frequently employed by white people to dehumanize individuals of color, justifying the denial of their fundamental rights.

As a supporter, I find it troubling that while actions like brutalizing someone, causing them to bleed from their eyes, are often labeled as savage for individuals of Samoan or Tongan descent, the same actions by a white person are more frequently described as cruel, monstrous, or even evil. It’s crucial to remember that such extreme behavior strips an individual of their humanity regardless of their ethnicity. In the case of Braun Strowman being referred to as a “monster,” it is essential to consider how this term, when applied to a white face, can impact perceptions and reinforce stereotypes.

The concept that Samoan wrestlers are often referred to as “savage” has deep roots in tradition, yet this doesn’t necessarily make it acceptable. It raises concerns about potential lingering racial prejudices within commentary when terms like “savage” are applied to Fatu, Tonga, and others. Conversely, during McIntyre’s matches against Punk in 2024, the same derogatory term was not consistently used for him, suggesting a possible double standard.

It’s unclear what discussions may have taken place regarding this matter. For all intents and purposes, Fatu and others might have agreed to be referred to as “savages” on a regular basis. To be fair to the commentary team, I must mention that they rarely use such language when referring to other wrestlers of color. Therefore, it’s possible that this term was specifically chosen for the New Bloodline.

What I yearn for is a more mindful approach in situations like these, with the understanding that traditional methods aren’t always the sole or superior solutions to problems.

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2025-02-01 19:37