Tiffany Stratton became a breakout star on the WWE main roster after her official call-up during the 2024 Women’s Royal Rumble match. Earlier this week, the former NXT Women’s Champion stirred up controversy after posting a video on Instagram of her delivering an elbow to Jade Cargill. The footage was backed by an audio clip that included the phrase “black b*tch” as she was striking Cargill.
Wrestling fans were outraged and rightfully so. They trashed Stratton in the replies of that post and elsewhere, labeling her a racist and more. Many tagged Triple H and WWE’s corporate accounts, ensuring this would not be swept under the rug, despite the fact that she deleted the video quickly. Damage was done, but how much?
This week’s Wrestling Observer Newsletter shed light on the story, calling it “pretty significant situation.” Dave Meltzer observed, “Basically if this was someone who wasn’t a star they’d be fired instantly.” Several of the popular ‘engagement’ accounts on social media speculated that Stratton had “backstage heat” and her impressive momentum since recently joining the main roster would come to a screeching halt.
We reached out to sources in WWE to clarify exactly where things stand. I was told this was reviewed at the highest levels and there is no “heat” on Stratton. Her ‘push’ won’t be affected and Jade Cargill (nor anybody else) made a big issue over it.
Cassidy Haynes of Bodyslam.net corroborates what I was told, reporting that “there is no internal backlash against Tiffany Stratton” and the matter “has been resolved.” This was also reported by PW Insider.
Tiffany Stratton’s versatile skill set, bolstered by her gymnastics background and charismatic personality, make her a valuable asset to WWE. She’s poised to make a big impact on the main roster, especially with so many former champions sidelined. That list includes, but is not limited to, Charlotte Flair, Rhea Ripley, Asuka, Alexa Bliss, Carmella and Raquel Rodriguez.
Stratton is scheduled for tonight’s WWE SmackDown, where she’ll compete against Bianca Belair in the Quarterfinals of the Queen of the Ring tournament.
Check out our interview with Tiffany Stratton from WrestleMania 40 weekend:
