Throwback: WWE fired on-screen talent over controversial comment on Kobe Bryant’s s*xual assault case

WWE superstars frequently use trash talk to denigrate their opponents during the promos for live shows. On occasion, they may even aim to belittle famous athletes from other sports to elevate their own status. Though most of these verbal jabs are harmless, there have been instances where individuals have crossed the line.

Such an incident occurred during the early 2010s when a WWE superstar was let go from the company after making an inappropriate joke about basketball legend Kobe Bryant.

WWE fired talent over harsh Kobe Bryant comment

In 2012, WWE terminated a member of its talent roster due to insensitive comments made about Kobe Bryant, who tragically passed away in a helicopter two years ago. Vince McMahon, the former CEO of WWE, was known for strictly enforcing the script and punishing wrestlers for even minor mistakes. As a result, some individuals have faced significant consequences for their actions in the past.

As a result of the strict policies enforced by WWE, some individuals have faced significant consequences for their actions in the past. The company has a history of punishing wrestlers for even minor mistakes. For instance, imagine a WWE superstar making a bad joke about Kobe Bryant and facing disciplinary action from their management.

One such example is that of Abraham Washington, who betrayed his group at the 2012 Money in the Bank pay-per-view and aligned himself with Darren Young and Titus O’Neil. Unfortunately, his WWE career came to an abrupt end before it even started because of a bad joke he made on the July 30, 2012, episode of Monday Night Raw.

“Titus O’Neil is like Kobe Bryant at a hotel in Colorado. He’s unstoppable,” said Abraham Washington.

WWE star pays homage to late Lakers icon

WWE superstar Natalya recently paid tribute to the late NBA legend Kobe Bryant on social media.

Bryant was an American professional basketball player who revolutionized the game. He had a successful 20-year career with the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association, winning five NBA championships. Sadly, he passed away on January 26, 2020, along with his daughter Gianna, in a tragic helicopter crash that left the world in sorrow. Bryant had a unique approach to his game and an unwavering work ethic, which he referred to as the ‘Mamba Mentality’.

WWE female superstar Natalya honored the late Kobe Bryant by sharing a picture of him along with a message and two heart emojis in Lakers’ colors on her Instagram story. Her tribute exuded immense respect for the basketball legend, who left an indelible mark on the sport.

What do you think about Natalya expressing her gratitude for Kobe Bryant by remembering him two years after his death? Let us know in the comments section below!