WWE Hall of Famer D-Von Dudley recently called for increased security at wrestling conventions after Elayna Black(formerly Cora Jade in WWE) accused a fan of sexual assault at WrestleCon on April 18, 2026.
Dudley warned that fan behavior has crossed dangerous lines and stronger protection is needed for wrestlers in public settings.
In an interview with Devon & The Duke, Dudley explained that some fans believe seeing wrestlers on television permits them to invade personal space. He said the problem is happening more frequently, particularly with female performers.
“Yeah, I think we definitely need more security… when these women are out in public, and I see it, these guys think because they see them on TV that they have the right to put their arms around them, touch them, say inappropriate things.”
Bodyguards May Be Necessary
Dudley said the situation has reached a point where bodyguards might be required, even if security costs make that difficult for independent wrestlers. He made it clear that ignoring the issue is no longer an option.
“I think a lot of these girls more than ever need bodyguards with them… but we need some type of — we need something — because it’s really getting out of hand now.”
Former multi-time Tag Team Champion also warned fans to respect boundaries when wrestlers are with family or going about their daily lives outside of scheduled appearances.
“Fans got to understand… if someone’s eating with their family… leave them alone. Leave them be. You don’t have the right to touch them,” Dudley said.
Unwanted Physical Contact a Growing Concern
Dudley addressed more extreme behavior, calling out unwanted physical contact and offensive actions that have become a real concern.
“You don’t have the right to squeeze their behinds… you definitely don’t have the right to come out of your mouth inappropriately.”
He pushed fans to consider how they would react if similar behavior happened to someone close to them.
“If that was your son, if that was your daughter… how would you feel? People don’t put that into consideration.”
Dudley also warned that these situations can quickly turn dangerous, especially when fans try to provoke reactions that could lead to legal trouble. He added:
“It’s scary. It really is scary… I got a little glimpse of it and it’s rough. So imagine how all of those guys in the public eye have to go through that all the time.”
“These people are out there to try to push your buttons so you would hit them… and next thing you know you’re in court.”
Dudley’s warning adds pressure on event organizers to take security seriously as incidents like this continue to surface, and performers speak out about unwanted contact from fans.