Overview
- The WWE star walked out to cheers, performed Ric Flair’s signature strut, shouted “Woo!,” and banged the Panthers’ drum while wearing a #26 jersey during the pregame at Bank of America Stadium on Sunday night.
- Panthers mascot Sir Purr encouraged the moment on the field and television viewers saw the appearance on NBC’s Sunday Night Football.
- Carolina beat Detroit 32-26 after a high-yardage game that featured Bryce Young throwing for 329 yards and two touchdowns and second-year receiver Tetairoa McMillan catching 14 passes for 192 yards and two scores.
- Reporters noted Flair’s Charlotte roots and her status as a decorated WWE performer with 14 world titles to explain the hometown nature of the appearance.
- The appearance combined local pageantry and national exposure, giving a short-term morale boost for fans and extra publicity for the Panthers as they head into their bye week.