Bianca Belair has found herself at the center of a storm of controversy and support following a recent Instagram post by WWE 2K featuring the covers for WWE 2K24. This promotional post showcased Belair alongside fellow wrestlers Cody Rhodes and Rhea Ripley, marking a historic moment as the first time an African-American wrestler has graced the cover of the prestigious video game franchise. Belair, known for her mantra of being “the fastEST, the strongEST, and the toughEST,” has garnered widespread acclaim in the wrestling world, boasting a remarkable career with three championship reigns.
However, amidst the excitement of this milestone, Belair fell victim to a barrage of racist comments, with some individuals even calling for her removal from the cover. The hateful rhetoric prompted a wave of backlash from fans and fellow wrestlers alike, denouncing the bigotry and rallying in support of the WWE superstar.
One notable figure who stood up for Belair is former AEW Champion, Thunder Rosa. In a powerful statement on the Busted Open podcast, Rosa emphasized the significance of Belair’s achievements, particularly in the face of racial adversity. Drawing from her own experiences as an immigrant, Rosa expressed solidarity with Belair and praised her as a beacon of representation and excellence in the wrestling industry. She passionately defended Belair’s rightful place on the cover of WWE 2K24, asserting that her remarkable journey from humble beginnings to superstardom is a testament to her resilience and talent.
Rosa’s impassioned defense of Belair resonated deeply with fans, sparking the trending hashtag #WeLoveYouBianca across social media platforms. The outpouring of support continued as prominent WWE stars, including Big E, Zelina Vega, and Women’s World Champion Rhea Ripley, voiced their solidarity with Belair and condemned the insidious racism she faced.
In a poignant message, Big E condemned the pervasive racism and misogyny that black women in wrestling endure, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging and celebrating their contributions to the industry. Zelina Vega echoed these sentiments, lauding Belair as an exemplary role model and a source of cultural pride. Meanwhile, Rhea Ripley affirmed Belair’s status as a history maker and a trailblazer, dismissing the detractors’ jealousy of her undeniable talent.
Despite the ugly reality of racial discrimination in the wrestling community, the overwhelming support for Bianca Belair serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and unity within the industry. As she continues to break barriers and inspire generations, Belair stands as a shining example of perseverance and excellence, deserving of every accolade and honor bestowed upon her.
Stephen’s Value: In today’s world, where diversity and representation are increasingly valued, the story of Bianca Belair’s journey from facing racism to gracing the cover of WWE 2K24 is not just a narrative of triumph in the wrestling world but also a reflection of broader societal struggles and victories. It underscores the importance of standing up against bigotry and celebrating individuals who defy stereotypes and pave the way for inclusivity and acceptance. As journalists, it’s crucial to highlight such stories that resonate beyond the confines of sports entertainment and inspire audiences to embrace diversity and champion equality.