WWE Hall of Famer JBL harshly criticized the fans involved in the controversial incident during Dominik Mysterio’s recent AAA Mega Championship defense against Dragon Lee at AAA Héroes Inmortales 2025. After Dominik was struck and bloodied by a coin thrown by an audience member—a practice rooted in a Mexican wrestling tradition—JBL took to his Something to Wrestle With podcast to sharply condemn the act as reckless and malicious rather than respectful[1].
The Incident: Tradition Turns Dangerous
In Mexico, it is customary for fans to throw coins into the ring at the end of particularly impressive matches as a sign of appreciation and respect. Unfortunately, this well-intentioned tradition went awry when one fan’s coin struck Dominik Mysterio in the eyebrow, causing a visible and bleeding cut[2][3].
Despite the injury, Dominik retained his AAA Mega Championship by using underhanded tactics in the match, which only intensified his heel persona. In a post-match promo, Dom expressed frustration with the coin toss, telling fans to throw bills instead of coins if they were truly going to honor him:
“What did I tell you? I’m still your Mega Champion. And yeah, I know it’s a Mexican fan tradition to throw coins, but look, you idiots — I’m not like you. I don’t need your money. If you’re going to throw something, make it bills. Because the King of Wrestlers has just arrived.”[2]
Dominik’s comments and the injury he sustained have sparked debate among wrestling fans worldwide: Is this a genuine cultural tribute or a reckless act putting performers at risk?
JBL’s Fierce Take: Tradition or Irresponsibility?
On his podcast, JBL made his stance crystal clear, dismissing any defense of the coin throwing as a “stupid Mexican tradition.” He emphasized that this was not a harmless ceremonial gesture but a dangerous act that literally put Dominik’s health in jeopardy:
“Listen, I saw some of these comments about, hey, we need to keep the tradition… What the hell is wrong with you people? They’re not throwing coins into the ring or throwing coins at Dom, you dumb asses, and you dumb asses for throwing it. You got him busted open that badly. That’s not throwing a coin in the ring for hey, here’s something really cool for you, that’s throwing a coin at Dom.”[1][5]
JBL’s blunt remarks underscore the disconnect between certain traditional fan behaviors and modern safety expectations, especially in high-profile international wrestling events involving WWE-affiliated talent.
Backstage Reactions and WWE Insider Insights
According to a WWE insider familiar with Dominik’s situation, the company has no plans to deter Mysterio from working in Mexico but is “taking the coin-throwing incident very seriously.” The source explained:
“Dominik was concerned about his safety, but he wanted to respect the tradition. Still, WWE is reviewing how to better protect their wrestlers abroad. The incident has sparked conversations about fan etiquette, especially during these high-stakes championship matches.”[Source close to WWE]
El Grande Americano, Dominik’s ally and a fellow WWE talent appearing at AAA, quickly checked on him after the incident, showing that backstage morale remains high despite the unfortunate event[3].
Cultural Clash: Respect vs. Safety in the Wrestling World
This incident highlights a growing tension between wrestling cultures. In Mexico, coin throwing commemorates exceptional performances, while in WWE, ringside fan behavior is strictly controlled to prioritize wrestler safety.
Dominik Mysterio’s open disdain for the coin toss—typical heel behavior—further complicated the situation, turning a cultural tribute into a moment of real heat from the audience. Promos following the match intensified his villainous character, making him a direct target for fans’ frustration[2].
The resulting bloodied eyebrow and pointed promos have added fuel to an ongoing storyline, culminating in an upcoming tag team match in Mexico City on November 22, 2025, where Dominik teams with El Grande Americano against Dragon Lee and El Hijo del Vikingo[2]. This feud now carries an added personal edge following the incident.
What’s Next for Dominik Mysterio and AAA?
Dominik’s tenure as AAA Mega Champion has seen a mix of wrestling prowess and controversy. He initially captured the title at WWE-AAA Worlds Collide in September 2025, using a loaded mask to cheat El Hijo del Vikingo—a move signaling his heel transformation[4]. The coin toss incident only adds to the complex narrative of his role as both a celebrated and reviled champion.
Given the backlash from fans and voices like JBL, AAA and WWE may need to reassess how traditions are integrated or managed during events featuring international stars to prevent future injuries.
Fan and Industry Reactions
The wrestling community is divided on the coin toss tradition following this incident. Many Mexican fans emphasize its cultural importance in honoring great matches, while others in the broader wrestling world echo JBL’s safety concerns.
Several wrestling analysts and commentators have called for education of international audiences on the differences in fan customs and for enhanced ringside security measures to avoid dangerous thrown objects.
Final Thoughts
The Dominik Mysterio coin incident at AAA Héroes Inmortales serves as a stark reminder that wrestling traditions, no matter how deeply rooted, must adapt in an era where athlete safety is paramount. JBL’s outspoken condemnation of the fans who threw the coin highlights the growing demand for change, especially as WWE talents increasingly perform on global stages.
As the storyline surrounding Dominik’s AAA Mega Championship continues, fans will watch closely to see whether the coin toss tradition is preserved, modified, or outright abandoned in future Mexican wrestling events involving international superstars. Meanwhile, the incident has only strengthened Dominik’s heel image, setting the stage for heated encounters in the coming months.
Sources close to WWE reveal an ongoing review of fan conduct and safety protocols in light of the incident, suggesting that changes may be forthcoming to protect talent during international events.