A backstage situation involving Tama Tonga has come into focus following the March 20 episode of WWE SmackDown, as a previously posted video has resurfaced online — shedding light on why the company reportedly took action.
Reports circulating during SmackDown indicated that the WWE fined Tonga after he shared rehearsal footage from the prior week.
While the initial details were limited, the clip in question has now made its way onto social media, offering a clearer picture of what led to the penalty.
Tama Tonga fined by WWE for posting rehearsal footage from SmackDown
According to Andrew Zarian, Tonga incurred a “significant” fine for posting a video from pre-show rehearsals.
WWE reportedly enforces an unwritten rule prohibiting talent from recording or sharing such footage. This likely aims to protect internal processes and maintain presentation control.
The resurfaced video itself is relatively uneventful. Shot on a phone inside the arena, it shows wrestlers casually moving around the ring during what appears to be a spacing or walk-through rehearsal.
There are no major spots, storyline reveals, or match outcomes visible. In fact, the clip has been described by viewers as routine and low-key.
Audio from the video captures ambient noise and light conversation, including a passing remark of “You’re killing me, dog.” Tonga is also seen interacting briefly with a production staff member, asking about doors opening as the building prepares to welcome fans.
Despite the lack of revealing content, the issue stems from the act of recording itself rather than what was shown. WWE’s internal policy — though not formally public — restricts talent from sharing behind-the-scenes rehearsal footage, regardless of its significance.
Tonga has since removed the original post, though copies continue to circulate online. The situation adds an off-screen wrinkle to an already active SmackDown landscape. Tonga and the MFTs were also scheduled for a tag team title defense later that night (which they eventually lost, giving us new champions).
For now, the message appears clear. Even a 29-second clip can carry weight backstage, especially when it steps outside the lines WWE prefers to keep unseen.
