AEW Draws Controversy Over Antisemitic Dynamite Storyline With MJF

Highlights

• AEW Dynamite and WWE NXT had a big night of wrestling, with a controversial promo battle between MJF and Juice Robinson.
• The moment involving a roll of quarters and references to Jewish stereotypes sparked backlash and accusations of antisemitism.
• While some fans criticized the segment for going too far, MJF defended it as an opportunity to raise awareness of bullying and Jewish hate.

Tuesday night was huge night of wrestling, with AEW Dynamite and WWE NXT going up against each other. As both companies attempted to outdo each other with huge matches and big name stars, what started as a simple promo battle on Dynamite ended in controversy. MJF and Jay White are on a collision course for an AEW World Championship match. With MJF on the stage, and Jay White, Juice Robinson, and The Gunns in the ring, White ran down his opponent before Robinson took the mic. Juice told MJF he had a roll of quarters with his name on it, then held up the proof. It made MJF shake with rage, and in today's environment, it made some fans feel the same way, but for real. It was seen as a moment that went too far, turning Juice Robinson's character into an Antisemite just to get heat, especially after the recent terrorist attack against Israel that's dominating the news.

MJF has been very outspoken over the years about his pride for his Jewish heritage, as well as the disgusting treatment he's had to endure because of his religion. He's mentioned having quarters thrown at him during previous promos, and just a few weeks ago, a fan at Grand Slam held up a sign which made fun of MJF and the quarters stereotype against Jews. While Tuesday night went too far for many, it was a planned moment, as Fightful reports, "AEW sources confirmed that MJF did clear the line. The sources said that it's MJF's story to tell and he wants to tell the story on AEW's fictional television show. MJF being comfortable with the story was also important to the company."

MJF sent out a tweet last night that read, "Tonight that piece of sh*t, Juice Robinson decided to bring up a story from my childhood that has left me scared. I’m glad he did. He brought awareness to something we’ve all gone through in one way, shape, or form in our lives. On behalf of anyone who’s ever been bullied for being different in any capacity. I look forward to leaving him scared too. I also look forward to this Thursday #StandUpToJewishHate." Underneath that was a photo advertising MJF speaking at a Stand Up To Jewish Hate event at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, MA on Thursday at 10 am.

RELATED: AEW: MJF's Slow Babyface Turn Has Been Brilliant

Did The MJF And Juice Robinson Moment Go Too Far?

MJF is definitely no stranger to controversy. Up until very recently, he had always played the most despicable of heels, and he never broke kayfabe. He had no problem saying the most evil things, or even flipping off kids, or throwing tequila in their face. The moment with Juice Robinson was uncomfortable, but perhaps that was the point. While we can argue on whether it was a good idea or not, it will at the very least bring more attention to Jewish hate and how it needs to be stopped.