Whether you're a fan of professional wrestling or not, you can't ignore what WWE's Finn Bàlor did during Wrestlemania 34 over the weekend.
The 36-year-old, whose real name is Fergal Devitt, was sure to include his self-named 'Bàlor Club' while his entrance played as he walked down to the ring for his match. However, taking a huge step forward in the name of progress and inclusion, the wrestler picked members of the LGBTQ community in New Orleans (where the event was filmed) to cheer him on.
Awesome! Finn Balor’s entrance included LGBT+ fans of New Orleans 🏳️🌈 #wrestlemania #wwe #finnbalor #lgbt pic.twitter.com/kMy8r6Z5Db
— P.J. Guinto (@theyellowstereo) April 8, 2018
Clad in their rainbow colored t-shirts with the phrase "For Everyone" written at the top, the group rooted for Bàlor as he walked down toward the ring wearing a leather jacket with a matching logo. Joining in on the fun, the announcers were sure to include the group as well.
"Spreading his message of inclusion. The Bàlor Club is for everyone," said one announcer.
The Bálor Club? For everyone???? It's more likely than you think!
☺🙌🌈❤🧡💛💚💙💜💖🏳️🌈#myart #FinnBalor pic.twitter.com/bX08KiJdy1
— dr. mrs. ariel bálor (@twoxdee) April 4, 2018
This was the first time the organization had ever experienced such inclusion, and during its most anticipated event no less. The response Bàlor got from fans on social media was also overwhelmingly positive.
@FinnBalor My favorite wrestler and now I can say the nicest guy! Made my weekend! #balorclubforeveryone #finnbalor #wrestlemania34 pic.twitter.com/5THHapCiTJ
— Benjamin (@vbenjami) April 8, 2018
The #BalorClub is out and about for @FinnBalor, as the #ICTitle #TripleThreat match is about to kick off #WrestleMania on @WWENetwork! pic.twitter.com/eDD7IgfZVf
— WWE Network (@WWENetwork) April 8, 2018
The shirt worn by the Bàlor Group incorporates a rainbow design to promote inclusivity of the LGBTQ community all over the world, with 20% of the sales benefiting the GLAAD charity.
To see such a staunch ally of the LGBTQ community (and one who is very easy on the eyes, I might add) in one of the least inclusive sports is not just enlightening, it send a very positive message to all.