Professional wrestler Gisele Shaw comes out as transgender

The 33-year-old Impact wrestler revealed it’s “super scary” to share her with her true self, but she hopes speaking out can help her and others in the process.

Shaw, whose real name is Gisele Mayordo, came out publicly during Toronto Pride and also spoke about the role her Filipino heritage played in her decision.

She said: “Coming from an Asian background, being the oldest, there was an unspoken rule, the expectation was that I would carry the family name, that I would set an example, that I would take care of my sisters.”

The knockout competitor also stated that she believes sports should be inclusive and hopes to inspire people to pursue their dreams.

Shaw added: “Sport is great, I wish everyone was included. People are moving away, that trans people are discriminated against, that trans people are the targets of violence.

“That’s why I want to come out now, to help people hear about these things, which are much more important than what they talk about in sports.”

Shaw has garnered support from other wrestlers with co-worker Mia Yim tweeting: “So proud of @GiseleShaw08!”

Meanwhile, Impact World Champion Josh Alexander wrote, “Beyond happy and proud of @GiseleShaw08. Phenomenal talent and even better person. Happy to call her a friend.”

Impact Wrestling has also stated that they support the professional wrestler and will connect her with LGBTQ+ resources, including GLAAD and Athlete Ally.

impact wrestling Executive Vice President Scott D’Amore said, “Impact Wrestling has been at the forefront of women’s empowerment for more than 15 years.

“Our company believes that presenting stories with female athletes and characters from all walks of life can not only entertain, but also inspire.

“Inclusion and representation are important to Impact and parent company Anthem Sports & Entertainment, but I will also add that Gisele is in Impact Wrestling because of her wrestling ability, her charisma, and because she fits on our roster.

“She is in Impact Wrestling because she is one of the best young talents anywhere in the business.”

Impact Knockouts World Champion Jordynne Grace also shared her support, saying, “As her friend, I’m excited that Gisele can inspire people with her story. I know that’s important to her. I’m biased, but I believe the trans community has a great role model in it.”

Shaw made his professional wrestling debut in 2015 and has since won championships in promotions like Progress Wrestling and Rev Pro Wrestling..

His talent also gave him the 19th place in Pro Wrestling Illustrated’s 2021 top 150 female fighters.

If you have been affected by any of these issues and would like to speak to someone in confidence, please contact Mindline Trans+ on 0300 330 5468. The line is open from 8pm to midnight on Monday and Friday and is run by trans volunteers.