Chad Gable took an unexpected step on the June 5 episode of WWE SmackDown, addressing unfinished business from his controversial El Grande Americano storyline and seeking forgiveness from one of WWE’s top luchadores.
The former Alpha Academy leader appeared backstage during the show and later approached Rey Fenix during a conversation with Nathan Frazer and Axiom.
What followed marked a significant shift in Gable’s character following months of controversy surrounding his masked alter ego.
Chad Gable addresses El Grande Americano controversy with Rey Fenix
Gable referenced his WrestleMania 41 encounter with Fenix, where he competed under the El Grande Americano persona. Reflecting on that period, Gable admitted that his actions crossed a line and showed a lack of respect for lucha libre traditions.
“We had an awesome match last year at WrestleMania, but I did it under false pretenses,” Gable told Fenix. “The longer I wore the mask, the more I realized this isn’t a joke. You’re taking on a responsibility to a culture, to a people, to an entire nation, and I made a mockery of that. I’m sorry. I’m asking for forgiveness.”
The apology stemmed from lessons Gable says he learned while portraying El Grande Americano. Rather than viewing the mask as a comedic prop, he acknowledged its deeper cultural significance and the responsibility that comes with representing lucha libre.
Fenix accepted the apology but made it clear that the issue extended beyond their personal rivalry. He reminded Gable that many luchadores across WWE were offended by his actions and suggested that more apologies may be necessary.
The backstage exchange follows the conclusion of Gable’s cross-promotional storyline in Mexico. After losing a Mask vs. Mask match at AAA’s Noche de los Grandes event, Gable was unmasked and revealed as the original El Grande Americano before passing the persona to Ludwig Kaiser.
With Fenix accepting the apology, Gable’s redemption story appears to be officially underway, though the road to earning trust throughout the lucha libre community may still have a few hurdles left.
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