Kayla Braxton has plenty of fond memories from her WWE run, but she says some fan interactions became downright uncomfortable.
During her appearance on TMZ Sports’ Inside The Ring, the former WWE broadcaster opened up about the growing issue of fans showing up at airports, hotels and other places where talent should be able to enjoy some privacy. Braxton said the problem starts with fans believing they have unlimited access to wrestlers and WWE personalities. According to Braxton, the issue goes far beyond being annoying.
“The accessibility that they have, I think is a real problem. Like they shouldn’t be able to show up to your baggage claim or wait for you at the airports or like follow you up to your rooms at the hotels.”
“There was too many times like I felt really unsafe and those. I mean all the girls do and the guys.”
She then shared one example that became a regular occurrence during her WWE travel schedule. Braxton also revealed how she handled fans she believed were simply collecting autographs to resell online. Rather than signing stacks of merchandise, she would limit herself to a single personalized autograph.
“Going to the airport at 5am leaving a SmackDown and having some dude with 40 bikini photos of me with their child right next to them that should be in bed. Because they know if they have their kid with them we might not say no to them. Like get a clue.”
“I’ll sign one for you and I’ll personalize it to you. Cause here you go. Here’s a courtesy that I don’t even owe you, but I’ll give this to you. I’m not about to make you a bunch of money to sell more photos of me.”
Stories about wrestlers dealing with invasive fan behavior have become increasingly common in recent years, and Braxton’s comments show that broadcasters and backstage personalities face many of the same issues. While most wrestling fans are respectful, Braxton believes the small percentage who cross personal boundaries continue to create serious problems for talent.
Have fan interactions gone too far in wrestling, or is this simply part of being a public figure? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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