Rick Steiner, a WWE Hall Of Famer, has been banned from all future Wrestlecon events after he made transphobic comments towards Gisele Shaw. The incident occurred at an autograph signing event at Wrestlecon where Steiner called Shaw derogatory and hurtful slurs and misgendered her. Shaw was shocked and disturbed by Steiner’s behavior, as he is someone who is looked up to by many wrestling fans. She reported the incident to Wrestlecon, who was unable to contact Steiner until the next morning.
Wrestlecon has since issued a public apology and stated that they aim to promote a safe and inclusive environment for all members of the LGBTQAI+ community in the wrestling industry. They have also attempted to facilitate a conversation between Steiner and Shaw, but as of yet, that has not happened.
It is important to note that Steiner was not booked by Wrestlecon itself but by a third-party vendor who had purchased table space at the event. Nonetheless, the organization has taken swift action in banning him from all future events. The incident has drawn attention to the issue of transphobia in the wrestling industry and the importance of promoting inclusivity and respect for all individuals.
*PWInsider.com was told that since Rick Steiner had left the event to attend last night’s WWE Hall of Fame ceremony, Wrestlecon did not have the ability to speak with Steiner until this morning.
*We are told that Steiner was informed he was not allowed to enter or take part in the remainder of Wrestlecon’s events.
*Steiner was not booked by the convention itself but was brought in by a third-party vendor who had purchased table space at the event.
*Wrestlecon is attempting to facilitate the two parties speaking about the incident, but thus far, that has not happened.
WrestleCon regrets the events that took place at yesterday’s convention and apologizes to Gisele Shaw. We aim to promote a safe and inclusive environment for all LGBTQAI+ members of the wrestling community. The issue has been addressed and we hope the remainder of the convention…
— WrestleCon – LA March 30-April 2 2023 (@wrestlecon) April 1, 2023
