The Netflix era of Monday Night Raw has brought fresh energy and star power to WWE programming, but not every celebrity cameo sits well with the locker room. Behind-the-scenes tensions reportedly emerged following comedian Tom Segura’s appearance on the May 26 episode, highlighting the delicate balance between corporate partnerships and wrestling respect.
Netflix Partnership Drives Celebrity Integration
Since Raw’s historic transition to Netflix in January, the streaming giant has leveraged its vast celebrity network to enhance WWE programming. The strategy includes featuring stars from various Netflix projects both in crowd shots and active segments. This cross-promotional approach represents a significant shift in how WWE integrates mainstream entertainment figures into their weekly television.
The partnership has created new opportunities for exposure while connecting WWE’s audience with Netflix’s broader entertainment ecosystem. However, this week’s controversy demonstrates that not all celebrity appearances generate positive reactions internally.
The Segura Situation Unfolds
Tom Segura and fellow comedian Bret Kreischer participated in a backstage segment alongside Cathy Kelley and The War Raiders during Monday’s broadcast. While the appearance seemed routine on television, it sparked significant discussion among WWE personnel who were familiar with Segura’s previous comments about professional wrestling.
According to WrestleVotes reporting, the comedian had previously made disparaging remarks about the wrestling industry and its fanbase. These comments created an uncomfortable situation for wrestling professionals who felt conflicted about welcoming someone who had publicly criticized their craft.
Internal Frustrations Surface
The wrestling journalism outlet WrestleVotes revealed the extent of backstage concerns during their radio show. Sources within WWE expressed disappointment about the booking decision, particularly given Segura’s documented history of negative wrestling commentary.
“We are told several in the company were unhappy with the appearance of comedian Tom Segura this past Monday at Raw. Years ago, Segura made several disparaging comments about the wrestling business, calling it fake, stupid people who watch it idiots, and that the fights are not real, among other things that were much worse, and we’re not going to say on the air.”
The situation created internal tension as WWE talent and staff recognized the appearance as a Netflix-driven decision rather than a wrestling creative choice.
Professional Courtesy Meets Personal Frustration
Despite the underlying concerns, reports indicate Segura conducted himself professionally during his time backstage. This created a complex dynamic where WWE personnel maintained their trademark hospitality while privately questioning the decision to feature someone who had previously dismissed their industry.
WrestleVotes noted that while company members understood Netflix’s role in the booking, they struggled with the principle of welcoming critics into their workspace. The situation highlights the ongoing challenge wrestling faces in gaining mainstream respect while simultaneously courting mainstream attention.
“While the few we talked to understood it was a Netflix call to have him on the show, and from all accounts, he was respectable while backstage, many within the company didn’t appreciate the fact that someone who was on record with these negative ideas and feelings towards pro wrestling could just walk right in and shake hands.”
Balancing Corporate Synergy With Wrestling Culture
This incident represents a broader challenge facing WWE as they navigate their relationship with Netflix. The streaming platform’s influence on programming decisions creates opportunities for mainstream crossover appeal but sometimes conflicts with wrestling’s protective culture. WWE has historically been sensitive about outside criticism, particularly from entertainment figures who dismiss wrestling’s legitimacy.
The wrestling industry has long struggled with mainstream acceptance, making comments that diminish the athleticism and entertainment value particularly stinging. When someone who previously mocked the business suddenly appears on programming, it can feel like a betrayal of the respect wrestlers work to earn.
Looking Forward
As WWE continues expanding their Netflix partnership, this controversy raises questions about vetting celebrity guests and balancing corporate objectives with locker room morale. The incident demonstrates that successful integration requires more than just star power – it demands respect for wrestling culture and understanding of the industry’s sensitivities. Will WWE implement stricter guidelines for celebrity appearances, or will corporate partnerships continue taking precedence over wrestler concerns?
