WWE superstar Chelsea Green announced she is stepping away from social media following intense backlash and harassment over her comments about Hulk Hogan’s death during a CBS News interview.
The Breaking Point
Green posted an emotional message to her followers on Friday, revealing the toll the controversy has taken:
“Social media was supposed to be a fun place and it hasn’t been for a while. It’s been overwhelming and I need to step away for a little bit.”
She described facing name-calling, death threats, and attacks from anonymous accounts.
The Original Controversy
The backlash began after Green appeared on CBS News 24/7 on Thursday to discuss Hogan’s passing. During the live interview, she stated “polarizing political views aside, he was an absolute icon.” She also posted a since-deleted tweet praising Hogan’s influence on wrestling while acknowledging his controversial nature.
Wrestling fans criticized Green for not directly addressing Hogan’s problematic history, particularly the racist remarks that led to his temporary WWE removal in 2015. Many felt her comments dismissed valid concerns about his legacy, especially given Green’s advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights.
Green’s Response and Apology
On Friday, Green issued a public apology clarifying her position: “Let me be clear: my stance on racism is unwavering. I do not condone it—period.” She explained that media engagement is part of her WWE role and emphasized she was attempting to handle a “complicated legacy” respectfully.
“If my response seemed dismissive of real concerns, I sincerely apologize. That was never my intention,” Green added, acknowledging she is still learning how to navigate such sensitive topics in public forums.
The Bigger Picture
The controversy highlights ongoing tensions within the wrestling community about how to honor legendary figures while acknowledging their problematic histories. Green’s decision to step away from social media also underscores the mental health impact of online harassment on public figures.
Before signing off, Green thanked her supporters, writing “Love my PatriHOTS!” using her affectionate nickname for her fanbase.
Green’s departure comes after Elayna Black shared that she would be taking a break from pro-wrestling, sharing that it was having a negative impact on her mental health.