While attending AEW Revolution, “Queen of the Ring” star Damaris Lewis spoke with AEW broadcaster Tony Schiavone about her experience learning about professional wrestling while filming the movie. However, one of her comments—stating that wrestlers “knew they were going to win” before anyone else—sparked controversy among fans, who felt it violated kayfabe.
Damaris Lewis Addresses Kayfabe Controversy
Following the backlash, AEW’s Kamille, who stars as June Byers in the film, clarified that Lewis’ statement wasn’t about spoilers but rather a winning mentality that wrestlers embody. Lewis herself later explained her words during an appearance on “Busted Open Radio.”
“First and foremost, I completely take accountability for how it came out. That was not how it was intended, so I’m sorry if it came out way wrong,” Lewis said.
She further explained that during the film’s press tour, she had been discussing how wrestlers carry a mindset of victory, always telling themselves, “I’m gonna win, I’m gonna win, I’m gonna win.” With limited time to think while speaking in the AEW arena, her comment was misinterpreted.
Lewis Expresses Respect for Pro Wrestling
Lewis went on to emphasize her deep respect for the wrestling industry, acknowledging how tough the sport is and how much risk performers take in the ring.
In “Queen of the Ring,” Lewis portrays Babs Wingo, one of the pioneering women’s wrestlers of the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) in the 1950s and 60s.
“I will say it again, I’m so sorry if it came off that way,” Lewis added. “But like you said, you gotta know the house you’re in. I know these fans love their sport and that they were defending their sport, so I can’t be mad.”
Understanding the Wrestling Mindset
Lewis’ comments were ultimately meant to highlight the confidence and determination wrestlers carry, rather than spoil anything about AEW’s outcomes. Her apology and clarification show that she respects both the industry and its passionate fanbase.
As “Queen of the Ring” continues its promotional tour, Lewis’ experience in wrestling storytelling will likely give her even greater appreciation for the sport and its dedicated performers.
FAQs
What did Damaris Lewis say at AEW Revolution?
Lewis stated that wrestlers know they are going to win before anyone else, which some fans interpreted as breaking kayfabe.
Did Damaris Lewis apologize for her AEW comments?
Yes, she took accountability and clarified that she was referring to a wrestler’s winning mentality, not a scripted outcome.
What role does Damaris Lewis play in ‘Queen of the Ring’?
She portrays Babs Wingo, a pioneering women’s wrestler from the National Wrestling Alliance in the 1950s and 60s.
What did AEW’s Kamille say about Damaris Lewis’ comments?
Kamille defended Lewis, explaining that her statement referred to the mindset wrestlers carry, not a literal match outcome.
Why did AEW fans react strongly to Damaris Lewis’ comments?
Many fans believed her words broke kayfabe by suggesting match outcomes are predetermined, which goes against wrestling tradition.
Does Damaris Lewis respect professional wrestling?
Yes, she has expressed admiration for the sport and the risks that wrestlers take inside the ring.
