Things got awkward fast at WWE Crown Jewel 2025 in Perth and not because of anything that happened in the ring. Before the matches even started, the crowd reaction to the Star-Spangled Banner had producers scrambling behind the scenes.
As Sophie Foster took the mic to sing the U.S. national anthem inside the RAC Arena, fans loudly booed the performance. The negative reaction was so intense that WWE reportedly had to manipulate the sound levels for the broadcast.
On the October 12 episode of Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer revealed what really happened during that moment and what fans at home didnt fully hear.
Meltzer emphasized that WWEs decision to include the anthem especially at an international event backfired in a big way.
Following the U.S. anthem, Sophie Foster performed Australias national anthem and the crowd response couldnt have been more different. Fans in Perth belted out every word, filling the arena with pride and completely flipping the energy.
The production decision to dial down the crowd audio during the American anthem is now drawing criticism from fans who feel the broadcast didnt reflect the true atmosphere in the building.
Do you think WWE should stop using the U.S. anthem at international shows? Please share your thoughts and feedback in the comment section below.
