World Wrestling Entertainment Superstar Darren Young has come out as a gay man.
According to a video from TMZ, the WWE star revealed to a videographer he was gay during an impromptu interview at Los Angeles International Airport on Wednesday. Young was stopped by the cameraman while grabbing his baggage, and asked if he thought a gay wrestler could be successful within the WWE organization.
"Absolutely," the 33-year-old wrestler said, laughing. "Look at me. I'm a WWE Superstar and, to be honest with you, I'll tell you right now, I'm gay, and I'm happy. Very happy."
The cameraman was stunned and told Young he had no idea. Young said he doesn't think his sexuality should matter.
"I guess if you want to call it 'coming out,' I really don't know what to say it is," Young told the cameraman. "I'm just letting you know that I'm happy [with] who I am, I'm comfortable with myself, and I'm happy to be living the dream."
Young said he understood that not everyone would he happy with his decision, but he hopes him coming out will make a difference. He said it is important that some people know that a person's sexual preference is not important.
"It should be about the person," Young said.
Wrestling blogs exploded with news of Young's coming out. He is said to be the first openly gay male wrestler actively participating in the professional sphere. According to a representative for the WWE, the wrestling organization is proud of Young for coming out.
"WWE is proud of Darren Young for being open about his sexuality, and we will continue to support him as a WWE Superstar," read a statement sent to The Huffington Post Thursday. "Today, in fact, Darren will be participating in one of our Be A Star anti-bullying rallies in Los Angeles to teach children how to create positive environments for everyone regardless of age, race, religion or sexual orientation."
Young began wrestling professionally in 2002 and joined the WWE in 2005, according to Larry Brown Sports. He's currently teamed with Titus O'Neil to form the Prime Time Players. He is currently in LA for the SummerSlam event.
According to the Huffington Post, in April, Washington Wizards player Jason Collins became the first professional male athlete actively playing in one of the country's major leagues to reveal he is gay. Other notable pro athletes to come out include boxer Orlando Cruz, San Francisco 49er Kwame Harris and rugby player Gareth Thomas.
