7 Things wrestling fans are looking forward to from AEW on TNT

#6 Inclusion and representation

Over the history of pro wrestling in North America, there has been an ugly undercurrent of homophobia that has permeated the industry.

Back in the 1950s, Gorgeous George raised the ire of wrestling fans by acting in a decidedly feminine way. He wore elaborately embroidered robes, had curly blonde hair, and sprayed the ring with perfume before he would deign to enter it.

Over time the homophobia became more blatant, such as when Dustin Runnels first donned the Goldust make up. In the early days of the character, Goldusts's attraction to other men was seen as a way to garner cheap heat.

Even when wrestling has attempted to be positive about gay characters, such as Billy and Chuck, it often turns them into running jokes or one-note performers.

AEW is looking to change all of that, in part by hiring Exotico performer Sonny Kiss and trans female wrestler, Nyla Rose.

Representation and inclusion of traditionally marginalized peoples would be a breath of fresh air in the wrestling industry and help begin to repair the reputation of the sport as toxic masculinity run wild.