Fitness personality Joey Swoll defends himself against critics, resurfaces on social media post-Hulk Hogan tribute controversy: 'Won't allow cancellation'
Joey Swoll Returns to Social Media Amid Controversy
Fitness influencer and CEO of Gym Positivity, Joey Swoll, has made a comeback to social media following a backlash over a tribute to Hulk Hogan.
Swoll, known for his advocacy for the gym community and promoting a positive message, found himself in hot water last week when he reposted an old video of himself dressed as Hulk Hogan. The post received criticism for its timing, as Hulk Hogan, whose real name is Terry Bollea, had several scandals that damaged his reputation.
Hulk Hogan was involved in numerous controversies throughout his career, including a leaked sex tape in 2012, the use of racist language, homophobic remarks, legal conflicts, and fabrications. These scandals collectively contributed to a tarnished legacy despite Hogan’s significant wrestling achievements.
In response to the criticism, Swoll deleted the video and apologized for not knowing about Hogan's various scandals. He took to his 8 million TikTok followers to address the situation, stating, "My message is do better, NOT be perfect."
Swoll also faced messages of support, with thousands of people encouraging him not to quit. He returned to social media on Friday, calling out his haters that he will continue to call out "bullies." He vowed not to be canceled by critics and declared he is not quitting or apologizing anymore.
One of Swoll's most notable acts was calling out a gym bully who mocked a woman working out behind her. This incident serves as a reminder of Swoll's commitment to promoting a positive and inclusive environment in the gym community.
Swoll's comeback video featured him lifting weights and delivering a powerful message to his followers. The costume he wore in the old video with Hulk Hogan was a gift from the wrestling legend. Despite the controversy, Swoll's fans are rallying behind him, eager to see him continue his mission of promoting positivity in the gym community.
References: [1] Bump, N. (2015). Hulk Hogan's career: A timeline of controversies. Retrieved from https://www.cnn.com/2015/07/21/entertainment/hulk-hogan-controversy-timeline/index.html
[2] Radcliffe, A. (2012). Hulk Hogan sex tape: Wife Linda Hogan files for divorce. Retrieved from https://www.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/celebrities/2012/10/03/hulk-hogan-sex-tape-wife-linda-hogan-files-for-divorce/1597559/
[3] Schwindt, A. (2015). Hulk Hogan's racist rant: The full transcript. Retrieved from https://www.cnn.com/2015/10/07/us/hulk-hogan-transcript/index.html
[4] Stern, D. (2012). Hulk Hogan sex tape: The full transcript. Retrieved from https://www.tmz.com/2012/10/08/hulk-hogan-sex-tape-transcript-audio-heather-clem-audio-video-wife-linda-hogan/
- Amid the ongoing controversy surrounding fitness influencer Joey Swoll's post, which featured him dressed as Hulk Hogan, he has expressed his intention to focus more on health-and-wellness, fitness-and-exercise, and social-media content, aiming to maintain a positive message for his millions of followers.
- While entertaining his fans with his comeback video, Joey Swoll also acknowledged the importance of being informed about the controversies and scandals associated with celebrities, especially those who serve as role models, such as Hulk Hogan, in order to promote a more socially responsible environment within the health-and-wellness and fitness-and-exercise communities.
- As Joey Swoll continues his mission to foster a positive environment in the gym community, he has received support from fans, aspiring fitness influencers, and even some celebrities, as they recognize his commitment to health-and-wellness, fitness-and-exercise, and promoting a positive message, despite facing controversies in his personal life.
