WWE pulls Trick Williams merchandise following fan backlash

WWE has removed a newly released Trick Williams T-shirt from its U.S. online store following backlash regarding its design. The shirt, titled “Lemon Pepper Steppers,” featured imagery of fried chicken wings surrounding Williams’ signature white boots.

Critics on social media argued that the combination of a Black wrestler and fried chicken imagery invokes a longstanding racial stereotype in the United States. While the phrase “Lemon Pepper Steppers” is a catchphrase used by Williams to describe his footwear, fans questioned how the design passed through the company’s merchandise approval process.

Although the listing was pulled from the U.S. WWE Shop within 24 hours of its September 21 release, the merchandise remains available on international storefronts, including the WWE Euroshop. WWE and Fanatics are reportedly working to address the remaining regional listings. Neither WWE nor Williams has issued a public statement regarding the removal.