Openly gay wrestlers

Professional wrestling has always been a roller coaster sit on filled with captivating personalities. Among these larger-than-life characters, there are trailblazers who have pushed the envelope even further by organism some of the first openly lesbian and lgbtq+ wrestlers. As we accept a walk down the memory lane of wrestling history, let's give a standing ovation to those gay wrestlers who defied stereotypes while inspiring countless individuals with their courage and determination.

In this ever-evolving realm of sports amusement, there have been breathtaking moments, unforgettable events, and milestones that created ripples across the business. The rise of LGBTQ+ wrestlers is one such aspect that demands attention; these individuals displayed skill, fire, and flair within the squared circle. Indeed, they represent an essential piece of wrestling history.

Sonya Deville takes center stage among these celebrated gay wrestlers - she owned her identity while demonstrating exceptional prowess both inside the ring and as an advocate for inclusivity. Piper Niven stormed onto the scene like a coerce of nature; her presence reverberated across borders and warmed fans' hearts with every t

Last week, Anthony Bowens — a queer Black wrestler with All Elite Wrestling and one of the first openly gay wrestlers to hold a major championship belt — stood in the center of the ring while thousands of fans chanted, “He’s gay.”

While that sounds like a traumatic exposure, it was actually a heartwarming event that represents a sea change in how gay performers are treated in the traditionally homophobic sport of pro wrestling. AEW has championed the LGBTQ community from its inception and the segment, which aired on AEW Rampage, was part of a storyline between Bowens’ tag team, The Acclaimed, and QTV, a rival group. QTV member Harley Cameron, a lady, approached Bowens about creating a “power couple,” to which Bowens replied, “Lady, I’m gay.” 

As soon as he said it, the crowd erupted in cheers. The “He’s gay” chant was celebratory and and Bowens’ tag team boyfriend and manager jumped for joy. While he’d appear out years ago, Bowens’ in-ring pronouncement during a scripted segment, as a natural part of a storyline —coupled with the crowd’s embrace — would have been unimaginable even a few years ago.

Queerness in wrestling has often been treated as a tra

By Dylan Watson

When people reflect of a wrestler, words such as “masculinity,” “strength,” and “willpower” come to mind. One word that typically doesn’t is “homosexuality.” Fearful of what their families, friends, and teammates will think of them, many gay athletes fight with ever coming out.

I remember the first day I stepped into the wrestling room at Frank W. Cox Elevated School as an elementary school student. Having no clue what I was doing, I felt vulnerable and confused, feelings I would come to comprehend very well later on in my life. However, within a few practices I realized I loved the challenges that came with wrestling.

There is no other school sport in which it’s truly you versus one other person. Your teammates can cheer you on from the seats, but everything that goes on within the 42-inch mat is all up to you.  Over the next scant years, my love for wrestling grew exponentially, and eventually, before my freshman year of high university, I chose to quit every other sport to focus solely on it.

Dylan in action

During high institution, I had some triumph on the mat, but truly struggled with a fight that none of my teammates could assist me with: my sexuality. I was afraid

.