Booker T Says “I Was A Little Upset” – WWE Legend Apologizes After Throwing Headset at NXT Halloween Havoc

Look, we’ve all had those moments where our emotions get the best of us. But when you’re a WWE Hall of Famer sitting at the commentary desk, throwing your headset because your favorite wrestler lost? That’s bound to make headlines. And that’s exactly what happened with Booker T at NXT Halloween Havoc 2025.

The five-time WCW Champion found himself in hot water after Ricky Starks defeated Trick Williams in the main event. Instead of keeping his cool like a seasoned professional, Booker T launched his headset in frustration. The WWE Universe wasn’t having it, and the backlash came swift and harsh.

But here’s the thing—Booker T actually owned up to it.

Booker T Addresses the Headset Incident

During an appearance on the Hall of Fame podcast, the wrestling legend didn’t try to dodge responsibility or make excuses. He straight-up apologized to the NXT faithful.

“I wanna apologise to the NXT Universe for throwing my headset at the end of the Ricky Starks Trick Williams match,” Booker T admitted. “I was a little upset, I was backing my boy Trick Williams, but Ricky Starks he showed up and went out there and did his job, even though he had the little Xerxes veil going.”

He continued, acknowledging that the incident got picked up in the news (because of course it did). “Look here, we’ve all got our favourites, it’s just part of the game,” he added.

At least he’s being real about it. Wrestling fans are passionate, and commentators are fans too. But there’s a line between showing emotion and losing your composure on live television. Booker T crossed that line, and he knows it.

This Isn’t Booker T’s First Rodeo with Controversy

If you’ve been following Booker T’s commentary career, you know this isn’t exactly his first controversial moment behind the desk. The man has a history of letting his emotions—and sometimes his mouth—get the better of him.

Remember when he told Michael Cole during a live broadcast that he had a dream where Cole died? Yeah, that actually happened. The comment left both Cole and viewers stunned, completely overshadowing the Randy Orton vs. Mark Henry match that was supposed to be the focus.

Then there was the Tiffany Stratton situation. During the September 9, 2025 edition of NXT, when Stratton made her entrance alongside Rhea Ripley and Stephanie Vaquer, Booker T remarked, “I gotta pop my neck, man.” Fans were not pleased, calling the comment objectifying and inappropriate. WWE probably wasn’t thrilled either.

His commentary style has always been… let’s call it “unconventional.” Some fans love his unfiltered approach and genuine reactions. Others think it’s time for WWE to find someone who can stay professional when the cameras are rolling.

The WWE Universe Is Divided on Booker T

Booker T’s role as an NXT commentator has sparked plenty of debate among wrestling fans. On one hand, you’ve got viewers who appreciate his authenticity and the passion he brings to the booth. He’s not reading from a script—he’s genuinely invested in what’s happening in the ring.

On the other hand, there’s a growing chorus of fans who think his antics are becoming a distraction. When your commentary is making more headlines than the actual wrestling matches, that’s a problem. NXT is supposed to be showcasing the next generation of WWE superstars, not turning into the Booker T show.

His bias toward certain wrestlers—particularly Trick Williams—has also raised eyebrows. Look, everyone has favorites. But as a commentator, you’re supposed to call the action fairly and let the wrestlers tell their story. When you’re openly rooting for one competitor and throwing a tantrum when they lose, it undermines the credibility of the product.

What Happens Next for Booker T?

The apology is a good start, but will it be enough? WWE has been cracking down on unprofessional behavior, both in the ring and behind the scenes. With the media attention this incident generated, it wouldn’t be surprising if Triple H and the NXT brass had a conversation with Booker T about keeping his emotions in check.

The wrestling legend clearly cares about the product and the talent. That passion is part of what made him such an incredible in-ring performer. But passion without professionalism can be destructive, especially in a role where you’re supposed to enhance the viewer experience, not detract from it.

Booker T has decades of experience in this business. He’s a WWE Hall of Famer, a multiple-time world champion, and someone who’s earned his place in wrestling history. He knows better than most what it takes to succeed in this industry—and what it looks like when you let your emotions sabotage your work.

The Bottom Line

At the end of the day, Booker T screwed up, and he admitted it. That takes guts. Not every WWE personality would be willing to publicly apologize for a moment of weakness. The question now is whether this apology will lead to actual change in his behavior or if we’ll be writing about his next controversial moment in a few weeks.

Ricky Starks deserves credit too. He defended his NXT Championship successfully, putting on a hell of a performance. The story should have been about his victory and what’s next for his reign as champion. Instead, we’re all talking about Booker T’s headset toss. That’s not fair to Starks or the NXT locker room.

Wrestling is an emotional business, and commentary should reflect that. But there’s a difference between passionate commentary and unprofessional conduct. Booker T has the talent and the experience to be great in this role—if he can just keep his emotions in check and remember that he’s there to elevate the product, not overshadow it.

Here’s hoping this apology marks a turning point. The NXT Universe deserves better, and frankly, so does Booker T. He’s capable of so much more than headset-throwing tantrums.