The world’s largest wrestling promotion has come under fire from viewers after wrestler Kiana James experienced an on-air wardrobe malfunction during the Women’s Elimination Chamber match on Saturday.
Earlier in the bout, James was the one dishing out punishment, flooring opponent Tiffany Stratton in front of the crowd at Chicago’s United Center.
But when Stratton later drove the 28-year-old down onto the mat, James’ purple bralet-style top shifted on impact, leaving one of her nipples exposed.
Brief exposure incidents aren’t unprecedented in women’s WWE matches given the gear involved, but what upset many fans wasn’t just the malfunction—it was the broadcast choice that followed.
James, whose real name is Kayla Inlay, remained on the canvas for several seconds while her outfit was out of place. According to critics, rather than cutting away, the camera stayed locked on her.
PageSix reports that the decision ignited backlash online, including one Instagram user who wrote: “If I was Kiana James, I’d be so upset with WWE.
“They did not put up a black screen when Kiana had an unfortunate wardrobe mishap inside Elimination Chamber.”
Another viewer questioned why the operator didn’t recognize she was in an “uncomfortable position,” arguing that too much was visible on TV while the shot continued.
Someone else posted on X: “They always censor wardrobe issues for women—why not here? Kiana was in such an uncomfortable spot!”
Adding to the controversy, James reportedly wasn’t the only competitor to have their gear shift during the Saturday, February 28 match, with some viewers accusing the broadcast of failing to censor a second incident as well.
The other moment came later when Raquel Rodriguez launched into one of the bout’s biggest power moves, driving Asuka down onto an already-prone James for a dramatic double elimination.
During the motion, Rodriguez’s top appeared to move suddenly, and she briefly covered herself with her hands. Once again, critics say the broadcast did not cut away.
Rodriguez continued without breaking character, quickly adjusting her gear before completing the slam that eliminated both opponents.
The WWE has been approached for comment.