A former WWE superstar came out as trans this week.
In an emotional and extremely introspective post on Instagram, Gabbi Tuft, formerly known as Tyler Reks, offered insight into how the decision was made.
“The ball dropped early today as this is now worldwide news. This is me. Unashamed, unabashedly me. This is the side of me that has hidden in the shadows, afraid and fearful of what the world would think; afraid of what my family, friends, and followers would say or do. I am no longer afraid and I am no longer fearful. I can now say with confidence, that I love myself for WHO I am.
“The previous eight months have been some of the darkest of my entire life. The emotional turmoil of being transgender and having to face the world has almost ended me on multiple occasions. However, the day I stopped caring about what other people thought, was the day I truly became limitless and allowed my authentic self to come into the light.
“My loving wife, family, and closest friends have accepted me for who I am. To them, I am forever grateful. Your support along the way means more than you will ever know. I don’t expect everyone to agree or understand.
‘It’s not my place to change any of your core beliefs. Just know that the outer shell may change, but the soul remains the same. I know that many of you have questions and, as I have promised, they will all be answered. … I promise to always be transparent and truthful with my journey, and to be a light to those that are in need. This is me.”
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In an interview with Extra, Tuft offered additional insight into the entire process.
The sports world has been forced to come to terms with its feelings and treatment of the LGBT community on multiple occasions over the past year. It happened with Dwight Howard, when he became embroiled in a salacious scandal not long ago. And then it happened once again this week with Philadelphia 76ers star Ben Simmons, who faced a similar situation.
Continued conversation and introspection regarding this subject will allow all parties involved to keep growing and learning how to handle what shouldn’t be a big thing at all in the most logical and accepting way.
Karl-Anthony Towns’ reaction to Jordyn Woods’ Buss It video speaks for itself.
— Game 7 (@game7__) January 26, 2021
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Jennifer Withers Hoey is a former Business Development Manager who transitioned to writing about sports. With valuable connections all over the West Coast, she has used those contacts to break some of the most interesting stories pertaining to the Portland Trail Blazers, Oregon Ducks, LA Lakers, LA Clippers, Seattle Supersonics (RIP), and more.
