5 Of The Most Controversial Mascots In Sports

This past decade has been rife with team name and mascot changes across professional sports leagues as many teams recognized the lack of sensitivity expressed by their mascots and slogans. Thankfully, many of the most controversial mascots have finally bid us adieu.

Cleveland Indians

The former mascot of MLB's Cleveland Indians (now known as the Cleveland Guardians), Chief Wahoo, represented the team from 1979 to 2018. This mascot was widely criticized by indigenous peoples, as well as by educational and social activist groups who, understandably, argued that the logo was racist and offensive. Today, the Cleveland Guardians have adopted a much less offensive logo: a baseball with angel wings.

Washington Redskins

Now known as the Washington Commanders, the former Washington Redskins' name and team mascot has long drawn controversy from indigenous peoples and social activists. Many argued that the team's name was a racial slur and took great offense to the team's former logo. The Washington Commanders announced the new team name in February 2022, adopting a simple 'W' in team colors as its new logo.

Chicago Blackhawks

The NHL's Chicago Blackhawks have been the subject of much scrutiny in recent years thanks to the team's Indian chief logo and a name that's rooted in indigenous history. However, while social activists have consistently pushed this team to change its name and its team mascot, the organization refuses, stating that the name Blackhawks was chosen in honor of the Illinois Sac and Fox Nation.

Edmonton Eskimos

Edmonton's Canadian Football League (CFL) franchise changed its name in 2021 after facing criticisms about its former team name, the Edmonton Eskimos. While the teams' former mascot was in the shape of a football and wasn't particularly offensive, fans continued to associate it with the team's controversial name. Today, the team's name has been updated to the Edmonton Elks and its new mascot, an Elk, has been widely accepted by fans and the CFL.

London Rippers

In London, Ontario, Canada, the London Rippers made waves as the city's professional baseball team. The name and mascot paid homage to the infamous serial killer Jack the Ripper. While the team only lasted one season and was dissolved due to lack of revenue and funding, the London Rippers are still the subject of much discussion surrounding controversial mascots and team names in professional sports.