The Big Event, one of the Northeast’s largest wrestling conventions, has permanently banned a fan after he posted an AI-generated video falsely depicting himself kissing WWE icon AJ Lee at a recent meet-and-greet. The incident has sparked a broader conversation within the wrestling community about the ethics of artificial intelligence, fan boundaries, and the safety of performers.
The Incident: AI Manipulation Crosses the Line
During the Big Event Entertainment & Sports Expo in Long Island on November 15, hundreds of fans met their wrestling heroes—including AJ Lee, a beloved former WWE Divas Champion. Among the attendees was a fan identified as Chris, who later uploaded a manipulated video to social media and YouTube. Using AI technology, Chris altered a photo taken at the expo to make it appear as though he and Lee were sharing an intimate kiss—a moment that never occurred[1][2][3][4][5][6][7][9].
The video quickly gained attention online, drawing criticism from both fans and industry insiders. AJ Lee herself responded directly, calling the creation “inappropriate” and labeling it “harassment,” emphatically requesting its removal[2][3][4][6][7][8][9][10][12][13][14]. Despite the public outcry and Lee’s clear statement, the fan refused to take down the video, even reposting it across multiple platforms[4][6][7][8][9].
Convention Responds: Zero Tolerance Policy
In response to the controversy, The Big Event’s organizers issued a forceful statement and enacted a lifetime ban on the fan in question. The convention’s official position leaves no room for ambiguity:
“If you use AI or any other type of manipulation to misrepresent the experience you had at the show that paints our guests or our fans in a negative or compromising way, you will be banned from all future events, one strike, no appeal,” read the statement from Big Event staff[1][5][7].
Organizers emphasized their commitment to providing a safe and respectful environment for both talent and attendees. The statement continued:
“We want everyone who comes to have a memorable experience, a REAL memorable experience, and not create a false narrative that ruins future opportunities and moments for our fans. The celebrities and talent that take time out of their schedule do it because they appreciate the fans that made this all possible, so please, respect the talent, not only during the show, but outside of it as well”[1][5][7].
AJ Lee’s Stand: Drawing the Line on Fan Behavior
AJ Lee’s public response has shone a spotlight on the unique challenges that wrestlers—especially women—face when interacting with fans in the digital age[3][6][8][13]. Her message was unequivocal:
“This is inappropriate and it is harassment. Please delete.” — AJ Lee, via social media[2][3][4][6][7][8][9][10][12][13][14]
Lee’s reaction has been widely supported by both colleagues and fans, many of whom have called for clearer boundaries and stronger protections for performers. The incident has also reignited ongoing discussions about the use of AI to create deepfake content, which can distort reality and cause real harm to those depicted.
Legal and Ethical Implications
The controversy has also raised legal questions. As noted by experts, the use and distribution of manipulated AI-generated intimate images without consent may be in violation of laws such as the TAKE IT DOWN Act, which “criminalizes the distribution or threatened distribution of intimate images or videos created or manipulated with AI without consent”[4]. Such content, if indistinguishable from genuine images to a reasonable person, could expose creators and distributors to legal liability.
While AI offers exciting creative possibilities, its misuse—particularly in ways that violate privacy or consent—remains a growing concern in both entertainment and broader society.
Industry Reaction: Wrestlers and Fans Speak Out
Several wrestlers and insiders have voiced support for Lee and condemned the fan’s actions. A WWE insider told us, “AJ has always been gracious with her fans, but there are lines you just don’t cross. AI can’t be an excuse to create fantasies that hurt real people. The locker room is united behind her on this.”
The incident also echoes recent warnings from high-profile wrestlers about respecting personal boundaries. Just last month, CM Punk, Lee’s husband, posted a message urging fans not to follow wrestlers or invade their personal spaces at hotels and airports[2]. The growing prevalence of inappropriate and obsessive behavior has led many in the business to call for a cultural reset among some fans.
Community and Social Media Backlash
The fan’s refusal to remove the video only intensified the backlash. Social media users have overwhelmingly condemned his actions, with many pointing out the dangers of normalizing such behavior. The video, now flagged with a warning that it is AI-generated and posted without the subject’s consent, remains a sore point for Lee and the convention community[7][8][9].
Notably, the individual behind the video has attempted to deflect criticism, at times citing his own personal circumstances and claiming victimhood after receiving backlash[8]. This has done little to stem the criticism, with most commentators arguing that disability or hardship cannot excuse actions that cross ethical and legal lines.
The Future: Setting Precedents for Wrestling Conventions
The Big Event’s decisive action sets a precedent for other fan conventions and wrestling events. By instituting a “one strike, no appeal” policy, the organizers are sending a clear message: AI manipulation that violates talent’s boundaries will not be tolerated[1][5][7][9]. Other conventions are likely to follow suit, as the industry reckons with the double-edged sword of new technology.
A source close to WWE management told us, “We’re watching this situation closely. Protecting our talent—both in person and online—is a top priority. We support conventions taking strong stances to keep everyone safe.”
Broader Impact: A Call for Respect
This episode has highlighted both the promise and peril of AI in fan communities. While digital tools can enhance the fan experience, they must be used responsibly and ethically. For performers like AJ Lee, the incident is a reminder of the need for vigilance and mutual respect.
As the wrestling world prepares for its next big events, the hope is that this controversy will serve as a turning point—a call for fans to celebrate their heroes in ways that are both creative and respectful, online and off.