Shiala Mahmood
Pro wrestling star Gisele Shaw has publicly come out as transgender during Toronto Pride.
The 33-year old Impact wrestler revealed that is 'super scary' sharing her to true self but hopes that speaking up will be able to help her and others in the process.
Speaking to the San Francisco Chronicle, she said: "There is really no perfect time to be coming out. It’s my journey. Now just felt right for me.”
Shaw, whose real name is Gisele Mayordo, came out publicly during Toronto Pride and also spoke about the role her Filipino heritage played in her decision.
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She said: "Coming from an Asian background, being the oldest, there was an unsaid rule, the expectation was that I would carry the family name, that I would set an example, that I would take care of my sisters."
The knockout competitor also stated she believes sports should be inclusive and hopes she inspires people to chase their dreams
Shaw added: "Sport is great, I would want everyone to be included. People are getting away from, that trans people are discriminated against, that trans people are the targets of violence.
"That’s why I want to come out now, to help people hear about these things, that are so much more important than what they’re talking about on sports.”
Shaw has garnered support from fellow wrestlers with co worker Mia Yim tweeting: "Sooo proud of @GiseleShaw08!!!"
Meanwhile, Impact World Champion Josh Alexander wrote: "Beyond happy for & proud of @GiseleShaw08. Phenomenal talent & even better person. Happy to call her a friend."
Impact Wrestling has also stated they support the pro wrestler and will be connecting her with LGBTQ+ resources, including GLAAD and Athlete Ally.
Impact Wrestling Executive Vice-President Scott D’Amore said: "Impact Wrestling has been at the forefront of empowering female performers for over 15 years.
"Our company believes featuring storylines with women athletes and characters from all different walks of life can not only entertain, but also inspire.
“Inclusiveness and representation are important to Impact and parent company Anthem Sports & Entertainment, but I’ll also add Gisele is in Impact Wrestling because of her wrestling ability, her charisma and because she fits in with our roster.
"She is in Impact Wrestling because she’s one of the best young talents anywhere in the business.”
Impact Knockouts World Champion Jordynne Grace also shared her support and said: "As her friend, I’m excited for Gisele to be able to inspire people with her story. I know that is important to her. I’m biased, but I think the trans community has a great role-model in her.”
Shaw made her pro wrestling debut in 2015, and has since held championships in promotions such as Progress Wrestling and Rev Pro Wrestling.
Her talents also bagged her the number 19 spot in Pro Wrestling Illustrated's 2021 top 150 female wrestlers.
If you’ve been affected by any of these issues and want to speak to someone in confidence contact Mindline Trans+ on 0300 330 5468. The line is open 8pm–midnight Mondays and Fridays and is run by trans volunteers