The World Wrestling Entertainment organization (WWE) announced that the special event planned for October 7 will now be called NXT Showdown instead of Invasion.
The decision came after an official request from Israel Hayom to the organization and to the American CW network, which broadcasts NXT, and after an international outcry that spread across social media and leading wrestling websites following Israel Hayom's report.
The name change was revealed during a live broadcast of NXT, WWE's main developmental division that shapes the next generation of wrestling stars. Representatives from the rival TNA organization also appeared in the ring. In a dramatic face-off between wrestlers from both groups, the new name Showdown was unveiled, signaling that the event will go ahead as planned but under a new brand.
Just two days earlier, WWE had announced the event under the name Invasion, scheduled for October 7. The choice drew harsh criticism from Jewish and Israeli fans around the world, who viewed it as deeply insensitive in light of the Hamas terrorist invasion and the massacre carried out in Israeli communities near Gaza on October 7, 2023. Following Israel Hayom's appeal and the involvement of the podcast "Close Line," as well as the international backlash, WWE announced that the event will still take place on the same date but under the new name Showdown.
In recent months, Israel Hayom has also approached WWE leadership over other controversies. For example, wrestler Sami Zayn faced backlash after making antisemitic remarks against Israel and Jews. At another event, he and CM Punk appeared in attire resembling the Palestinian flag. Only after widespread protest and an official request from Israel Hayom were Zayn's videos and posts removed from social media.
