Gay in wwe

13 WWE Wrestlers Who Identify As LGBTQ+

For decades, homosexuality was an uncomfortable subject in the WWE. For example, Dustin Rhodes' Goldust persona pretended to be gay, using homosexuality as a means to draw heat, while Chris Kanyon, who was legitimately gay, hid his sexuality to avoid it from causing him any professional turmoil.

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26 Wrestlers Who Are Queer

More wrestlers than ever before are coming out as part of the LGBTQ+ community, with these major names being great examples in and out of the ring.

Today, most fans admit that talent comes in all shapes, sizes, colors, and sexualities. Wrestling fans have become much more accepting of the LGBTQ people. This has, in turn, resulted in more LGBTQ inclusion in wrestling today than ever before. Here are 13 WWE wrestlers, past or present, who identify as LGBTQ.

UPDATE: 2025/05/01 20:00 EST BY BENJAMIN VIEIRA

The Homosexual community has reach a long way in professional wrestling. In the past, the community was not given much respect when it came to the storylines that they were represented in. However, in 2025, things have thankfully changed for the better. Many wre

WWE has officially signed its first out LGBTQ wrestler under the newly launched WWE ID recruitment initiative. Independent wrestler Aaron Rourke, recognizable by his notify name Evil Same-sex attracted, was announced as the latest signee during a exceptional edition of Wrestling Open on IWTV, the independent pro wrestling streaming service. The signing marks a historic moment not only for Rourke but for WWE's commitment to diversity and inclusion in professional wrestling.

“I’ve been dreaming of this moment since I was a kid, and I have to appreciate everyone who has gotten me here. To my doubters and the people who said this couldn’t be achievable, thank you because your criticisms and your judgments made me the workhorse I am today. For anyone who has been told that their dreams are too great, let me be the example that you absolutely can,"  Rourke said in an emotional expression after receiving the contract. 

   
 

 A Rising Star in LGBTQ Wrestling

Aaron Rourke’s journey to WWE has been anything but easy, but his success in the independent wrestling circuit proves his dedication and resilience. The New England-based wrestler has become a familiar name in multiple promotions

Professional wrestling has always been a roller coaster travel filled with captivating personalities. Among these larger-than-life characters, there are trailblazers who have pushed the envelope even further by creature some of the first openly lesbian and same-sex attracted 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 fun, 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 drive of nature; her presence reverberated across borders and warmed fans' hearts with every t

WWE Hall of Famer Pat Patterson, 1st gay superstar in business, dies at 79

Legendary pro wrestler Pat Patterson who came out as the first gay superstar in WWE has died.

The sports entertainment company announced Wednesday that Patterson passed away at the age of 79.

A longtime employee of the WWE, Patterson was hailed as a pioneer for the LGBT community within the sport.

Even though his coming out was long-known within wrestling circles, Patterson chronicled his life in the industry in his 2016 autobiography "Accepted: How the First Gay Superstar Changed WWE."

Additionally, the Canada-born Patterson is forever famous as WWE's first-ever Intercontinental Champion, a prestigious title outside of the company's world championship, and the creator of one of the company's most unique matches, the 30-person "Royal Rumble" match.

"In a career spanning six decades, the renaissance man left an indelible mark on the industry in the ring, on the microphone and behind the scenes," WWE stated, alluding to his one-time stint as TV hue commentator and his latter time role as a match producer and consultant.

He wrestled from 1958 until 19