WWE Removes Trick Williams T-Shirt After Heavy Backlash From Fans

WWE Pulls Trick Williams Shirt From US Store Following Fan Backlash

WWE has officially pulled a newly released Trick Williams merchandise item from its online retail store following widespread criticism from fans across social media.

The t-shirt, themed around Williams’ popular “Lemon Pepper Steppers“ phrase, featured custom graphic artwork depicting chicken wings being dipped into a shoe. Following an immediate negative response online, WWE Shop on Fanatics removed the listing from its U.S. storefront.

Opponents of the design labeled the artwork low-effort, while several fans on social media accused the concept of leaning into harmful racial stereotypes. Williams originally coined the phrase “Lemon Pepper Steppers” during his television promos to refer to his stylish footwear and overall charismatic demeanor.

Despite being removed from the U.S. store, the item briefly remained active on WWE’s Euroshop portal. The official product description highlighted the slogan:

“Whoop that trick! What? Whoop that trick! Yeah! Whoop that trick! Uh-huh! Whoop that trick! I like it. Show that you’re all about two-stepping in Lemon Pepper steppers and talking that talk by grabbing this Trick Williams Lemon Pepper Steppers T-Shirt. Featuring stylized Superstar graphics printed across the chest and back neck, this comfy cotton tee will have you feeling like you’re ready to step to the ring with all of Trick Williams’ confidence.”

The rapid merchandise pull marks the second notable retail controversy for WWE in recent weeks. The company previously faced public backlash over the design quality of a t-shirt commemorating the 25th anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks, which was later replaced with revised artwork.