Fitness personality Joey Swoll responds to critics, reemerges on social media following controversy over Hulk Hogan tribute: "Won't let anyone silence me"
In a surprising turn of events, fitness influencer Joey Swoll found himself in the midst of controversy after paying tribute to the late wrestling icon, Hulk Hogan. Swoll, also known as Joey Sergo and CEO of Gym Positivity, posted a video where he dressed up as Hogan, a costume that was reportedly a gift from the wrestler.
However, the tribute sparked criticism towards Swoll, with many reminding him of Hogan's history of racism and controversial behavior. Critics argued that Hogan's past actions "go way beyond just making a mistake" and are "not excusable," making Swoll's tribute appear tone-deaf to many.
The controversy intensified when Swoll posted a livestream apology, only to be met with further backlash due to his use of outdated and offensive language. The critique centered on Hogan’s racist remarks and behavior from his past, which remain a significant stain on his legacy and prompted many fans to reject tributes honoring him.
Swoll initially defended his tribute but later apologized after understanding the extent of Hogan's problematic history. He deleted the tribute video and expressed remorse to his followers, acknowledging that he was not aware of Hogan's scandals.
Despite the backlash, Swoll declared that he is not quitting social media and is done apologizing for his actions. He returned to the platform on Friday, using his car, a familiar backdrop for his videos, as a setting in his latest post. Swoll's message is "do better, NOT be perfect."
In a show of support, Swoll received thousands of messages from people telling him not to quit. He also took the opportunity to call out a gym bully who mocked a woman working out behind her. Swoll warned his haters that he would continue to call out "bullies."
The Pinellas County Forensic Science Center confirmed Hulk Hogan's cause of death, revealing that he died of a heart attack. The news of Hogan's death, coupled with Swoll's tribute controversy, has sparked a larger conversation about accountability and the importance of understanding an individual's full history before honoring them.
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- The controversy surrounding fitness influencer Joey Swoll extended to the realm of social media, fueling discussions about accountability and understanding an individual's full history before honoring them.
- Despite facing criticism, Joey Swoll emphasized his commitment to using media platforms for health-and-wellness, fitness-and-exercise, and lifestyle content, continuing to engage with his followers.
- Amid the controversy, Joey Swoll also took the opportunity to address a gym bully who mocked a woman working out, publicly warning his haters that he would continue to call out "bullies."
- In a separate event, the Pinellas County Forensic Science Center confirmed Hulk Hogan's cause of death, stating that he died of a heart attack, adding another dimension to the ongoing debate.
- The controversy stirred by Joey Swoll's tribute to Hulk Hogan, combined with Hogan's death and the ensuing conversation about accountability, has highlighted the power of media in shaping and reflecting public opinion, particularly in areas related to science, entertainment, and celebrity lifestyles.
