The WWE Crown Jewel event in Perth, Australia, kicked off with an unexpected twist as local fans booed the American national anthem, sparking a heated debate. The incident occurred before John Cena's highly anticipated performance, leaving a 13,000-strong crowd in anticipation. The local performer, Sophie Foster, sang the Star Spangled Banner, followed by Advance Australia Fair, but the crowd's reaction was less than enthusiastic. Video footage shows a wave of boos, with some fans questioning the choice of anthems, especially since the event was held on Australian soil. One attendee reported that TV technicians on the ground level called for audio cuts, indicating the intensity of the booing. However, the atmosphere shifted dramatically when Turner performed Australia's national anthem, eliciting passionate cheers and singing from the crowd.
The online reaction was swift and varied. Some fans expressed confusion, questioning the tradition of playing the American national anthem in foreign countries. Others joined in the booing, with one user stating, 'There is literally no need for the US anthem before a @WWE event in Australia...boo away, Perth! #CrownJewel.' However, a significant portion of the audience criticized the booing as 'poor form,' even suggesting a potential boycott of future WWE tours in Australia. One user went as far as to call it 'sickening' and suggested a multi-year hiatus for the WWE in the country.
Australian WWE star Grayson Waller defended the fans' behavior, suggesting it was more theatrical than insulting. He stated, 'It’s just like an in thing right now to boo the US national anthem. I’m very proud that I get to live in the US right now.' Despite the initial backlash, Premier Roger Cook condemned any form of negative commentary or noise about another country, emphasizing that it was never acceptable. WWE chief content officer Triple H, however, focused on the positive aspects of the event, praising Perth as an 'incredible city' and highlighting the talent's enjoyable experience in the city.
