AEW Issues Statement Regarding LGBT Athletes

All Elite Wrestling is addressing backlash against the company utilizing LGBT competitors.

Earlier this week, AEW announced a women’s match for Double or Nothing involving Dr. Britt Baker, Kylie Rae and transgender wrestler Nyla Rose. Apparently some people took issue with Nyla Rose’s involvement.

Twitter user @Dnellicious sent a message to Brandi and Cody Rhodes urging them to address the ‘rampant homophobia’ among the pro wrestling community.

@TheBrandiRhodes and @CodyRhodes I’m super appreciative of you guys showcasing trans &queer wrestlers. It’s equally important for you guys to address the rampant homophobia in some of your fanbase w/ a lot of these comments. A message showcasing your disapproval goes a long way

— D.A.M (@Dnellicious) February 13, 2019

AEW Executive Vice President Cody responded, “We are promoting matches that’s causing this apparent debate (which I admittedly have not seen and instead have seen only excitement/happiness). The stand is in standing by those matches. Why would we signal boost hatred? Wrestling is for everybody and not everything is a scandal.”

Cody followed up in that thread by saying, “NOBODY is going to be able to vilify LGBT competitors/fans/staff at our events. Wrestling is for everybody.”

AEW Chief Brand Officer Brandi Rhodes also issued the following statement:

“As we look ahead to Las Vegas, let’s take this opportunity to make it clear that AEW is totally inclusive. We fully support and celebrate all of our athletes, and all of our fans, regardless of their sexual orientation, race, gender, religion or ethnicity. Period.

A safe, inclusive, respectful and very cool environment will be central to everything we do at AEW. Be who you are, and come as you are. Because we’re all going to come together as a community to change the world.”