WWE has faced backlash for allegedly using generative AI in a video package for El Grande Americano, which aired on the March 24 edition of Raw from Glasgow, Scotland.
The video, intended to establish El Grande Americano’s character, presented him as a lucha libre legend on the same level as Blue Demon and Mil Mascaras. It claimed he hailed from the ‘Gulf of America’ and had disappeared after being blackballed by jealous rivals before resurfacing in WWE.
However, fans quickly noticed elements typical of AI-generated content, such as distorted human hands featuring more than five fingers. These inconsistencies sparked criticism on social media, with many expressing frustration over the company potentially using AI instead of traditional production methods.
El Grande Americano, who bears an uncanny resemblance to Chad Gable, made his in-ring debut on Raw, defeating Dragon Lee after unmasking him and applying an ankle lock.
Beyond the AI concerns, WWE also faced backlash for referencing the ‘Gulf of America.’ The phrase stems from an executive order by U.S. President Donald Trump, which directed federal agencies to use ‘Gulf of America’ instead of ‘Gulf of Mexico.’ While some U.S. platforms like Google Maps have adopted the term, internationally, it remains the ‘Gulf of Mexico.’
Ernesto Ocampo of Super Luchas condemned the video package, posting on X (translated from Spanish):
“This is an insult on many levels, both to Mexican wrestling and to Mexico. They could have left out the ‘Gulf of America’ part and tried to write the character’s name in proper Spanish.”
William Beltran told Dave Meltzer in the F4WOnline Daily Update:
“While many fans found it entertaining—especially those in the United States—numerous fans from Mexico and Latin America have voiced their discontent on social media. Fans on both sides have also expressed frustration over the use of AI-generated images.”
Which Former WWE Champion Returned To Action At A Recent European Live Tour Event?
Former WWE Champion Sheamus made his in-ring return for the first time since the 2025 Royal Rumble match at a live event in Belfast, Northern Ireland, on March 22. Sheamus squared off against Bron Breakker, who had his Intercontinental Championship on the line. Sheamus and Breakker also wrestled each other again for the belt the next night in Nottingham, England.
Following the debut, the backstage reaction to El Grande Americano’s debut has been revealed.
In recent news, El Grande Americano has captured his first WWE Championship.