Bisexual Wrestler Bear Bronson Offers Candid Advice on Coming Out Journey
TNA wrestling star Bear Bronson, who publicly came out as bisexual in 2024, has shared remarkably honest guidance for individuals considering coming out. The hulking deathmatch wrestler emphasized that while progress has been made, the process remains challenging for many.
"You Can't Say It'll Be Easy"
Bronson told Metro exclusively that his fundamental advice is simple yet profound: "Do it whenever you're ready." He added, "And you cannot lie to somebody and say it's going to be easy, because it may not be. That's just, unfortunately, the world we live in."
The wrestler acknowledged his own fortunate circumstances, noting, "I fully acknowledge that I'm lucky to have the support system I have in my life." He contrasted this with close friends who faced rejection from their own parents after coming out as transgender.
Wrestling as a Microcosm of Society
Bronson explained that wrestling locker rooms reflect broader societal attitudes. "Wrestling just happens to be like a part of society. Our locker rooms are filled with many different people," he observed. The athlete believes authenticity creates positive ripple effects: "If you are being yourself, unapologetically, and that influences somebody to do that as well, then more and more locker rooms across the world are becoming more and more full of people that are unapologetically themselves."
Personal Journey and Support System
Married to fellow LGBTQ+ wrestler Gabby Forza, Bronson credits his wife with helping him embrace his true self. "[My wife] saw that side of me and made me not afraid to let it out, and I'm very lucky for that," he smiled.
The wrestler has faced multiple forms of judgment throughout his career, including criticism about his body type and cheerful disposition. "Coming up in wrestling, I was heavily judged because I'm fat, or just happy all the time," he recalled. "Or even just having a belly, just having a belly and being a thicker, huskier person, just used to bother people on my way up."
Finding the Right Professional Home
After leaving AEW and attracting interest from WWE, Bronson ultimately signed with TNA in January. "With TNA, it just felt too right," he explained. The wrestler revealed that WWE contacted him on his birthday, November 13, but he found TNA offered the growth environment he needed.
"I am the best version of myself that I've ever been in my 11 year career," Bronson beamed. "TNA is a place where I just watch people go to and grow into better versions of themselves, or the best versions of themselves."
Embracing Deathmatch Wrestling
Bronson continues to pursue deathmatch wrestling despite critics, comparing it to controversial horror films like Terrifier 3. "I love it," he stated simply. While acknowledging his bosses aren't entirely enthusiastic about his deathmatch exploits, he believes TNA provides the right platform for his multifaceted career.
The wrestler concluded with powerful words about authenticity: "All different facets of life, if you are unapologetically yourself, you will feel free." His message emphasizes that while coming out requires strength that "takes time to build up," living authentically creates freedom that transcends professional wrestling.
