During the November 7, 2025 episode of WWE SmackDown, fans witnessed an unusual on-air interruption when the broadcast repeatedly went black during the highly anticipated match between Charlotte Flair and Nia Jax. It was later confirmed that these screen blackouts were intentional production decisions made to prevent viewers from seeing a wardrobe malfunction that Charlotte experienced with her ring attire[2][4].
What Happened During the Match?
Charlotte Flair, known as “The Queen” of WWE, had to deal with her top slipping multiple times throughout the match. She was visibly adjusting her gear in the ring, including during one of the forced blackouts, where she retreated briefly to the corner to fix her attire without exposing anything inappropriate on live TV[2]. Despite these interruptions, Charlotte and Nia kept the match going, with Nia getting some assistance from NXT newcomer Lash Legend as the contest intensified[2].
The incident became a viral topic among WWE fans and wrestling news outlets immediately after SmackDown aired. Although the wardrobe malfunction was brief and handled professionally in real-time, it posed a broadcasting challenge, prompting WWE’s production team to cut away from the ring several times to maintain broadcast standards[1][3][4].
Charlotte’s Professional and Humorous Response
Rather than being embarrassed or upset, Charlotte Flair took the incident in stride and even injected some humor into it through social media. On her official X (formerly Twitter) account, she responded to fans’ questions and jokes by saying, “I’m going to start wrestling in the robes 🥴” to make light of the situation[2][4].
Backstage sources praised Charlotte’s professionalism during the awkward moment. According to a WWE insider, Charlotte told production staff, “Accidents happen — let’s just move on,” demonstrating her calm and experienced approach even when facing unexpected on-air difficulties[1].
WWE’s Reaction and Production Challenges
The wardrobe malfunction highlighted the challenges WWE faces in live broadcasting, particularly with the increasing scrutiny under TKO Group Holdings, WWE’s new managementc. Inside sources reveal that executives Triple H and Nick Khan were displeased with how the production handled the situation, emphasizing the company’s desire to break away from old WWE practices and signal a more polished, stricter era under TKO leadership[1].
This incident mirrors a similar wardrobe slip Charlotte had at WrestleMania in 2022, which also forced WWE to cut the broadcast briefly to avoid showing sensitive content[4]. Despite these occasional wardrobe issues, Charlotte remains a cornerstone of WWE’s women’s division, currently one of the most decorated champions in WWE history.
The Bigger Picture: WWE’s Upcoming Seasons
The wardrobe malfunction happened at a pivotal time in WWE’s calendar. With Survivor Series 2025 approaching and WrestleMania 42 rumors heating up—linked to potential appearances by legends such as The Rock, Stone Cold Steve Austin, and even a high-profile AEW megastar—WWE is navigating a season packed with big storylines and surprises[1]. The production’s swift action during the SmackDown incident shows WWE’s commitment to maintaining brand integrity while managing live event risks.
Final Thoughts
Charlotte Flair’s ability to laugh off the wardrobe malfunction and continue delivering in the ring reflects her veteran status and positive attitude, earning respect both behind the scenes and among fans. WWE’s handling of the live incident via blackouts was a strategic move to contain the situation, although it sparked conversation about evolving production standards in live wrestling broadcasts.
As one backstage source put it, “Charlotte’s professionalism saved the night. The real focus should always be on the wrestling, not the mishaps.” Charlotte’s joke about wrestling in robes might have lightened the mood, but it also highlighted the unpredictable nature of live sports entertainment and the importance of quick thinking by performers and crew alike.
Fans can expect WWE to continue refining its live broadcast policies as the company heads toward a promising and chaotic finale to 2025 and a blockbuster WrestleMania season in 2026.