Bowens Reflects on Personal Growth and Acceptance in Pro Wrestling
Summary
– Anthony Bowens discusses the positive impact of coming out on his wrestling career and personal life.
– He shares insights from his recent interview on “The Mark Hoke Show.”
– Bowens reflects on the “I’m Gay” promo segment from AEW Rampage in 2023.
AEW star Anthony Bowens, one of the openly LGBTQ wrestlers in the current pro wrestling landscape, has spoken about the significant impact coming out has had on his career and personal life. During a recent appearance on “The Mark Hoke Show,” Bowens detailed how embracing his identity has been a liberating experience, allowing him to connect more deeply with fellow wrestlers, friends, and fans.
“When I came out, I felt like all of those walls came crashing down, and I was able to connect with people more,” Bowens shared. “I was able to connect with my fellow wrestlers, my friendships with them, and my other friends in general got stronger. I was able to connect with fans all over the world, other closeted athletes. It really was such a positive thing and a relief — a complete relief that I got to be myself. I didn’t have to hide anymore, I didn’t have to structure conversations a certain way. I felt free, and that’s basically what it was. I was able to really focus on being a good performer and figuring out who I was as a character, as opposed to figuring out a character and figuring out who I was as a person in actual life. It was just a ton of stress, and I was so glad when it was over.”
Before coming out, Bowens revealed he experienced “pure anxiety,” feeling like he was living a double life. The weight of this anxiety lifted once he embraced his true self, leading to a more authentic and fulfilling career.
Bowens also discussed a memorable segment from “AEW Rampage” in 2023, where he humorously informed Harley Cameron that he was gay, prompting a “He’s Gay” chant from the audience. The segment was notable for its positive and lighthearted portrayal of his sexuality.
“It’s never been said before [the word gay] in a wrestling ring on national television,” Bowens noted. “My form of activism is to go out and be myself, representing as authentically and positively as possible. I’m not really much in your face, but I always wanted to present it in a fun way because a lot of times it ends up being presented in a very, very serious, emotional way. I wanted to present it in more of a happy-go-lucky way.”
QT Marshall pitched the idea to Bowens, who eagerly embraced it. The segment’s success and the audience’s enthusiastic reaction were both surprising and gratifying for him.
“I’ve been waiting to do something like this at the right time for a long time, and I’m very, very happy with the result. I’m very happy that the crowd enjoyed it. I would have never in a million years expected them to erupt the way that they did.”
Reflecting on his journey, Bowens expressed amazement at his acceptance in the pro wrestling world. The positive reaction to his “I’m Gay” promo segment is a testament to the growing inclusivity and support within the industry.
