One big thing: Oklahoma SAC asks legislature to weigh in on transgender wrestling rule
The Oklahoma State Athletic Commission (OSAC) is seeking legislative guidance on a rule that prohibits intergender wrestling, following a controversial warning issued to AEW in December 2023.
Why it matters
• This decision could impact the future of transgender wrestlers competing in Oklahoma.
• It highlights the ongoing debate about transgender athletes in sports and entertainment.
The backstory
• In December 2023, OSAC warned AEW for allowing Nyla Rose, a transgender wrestler, to perform in Oklahoma City.
• The warning cited a 2021 Oklahoma law regarding transgender athletes competing against cisgender athletes.
• This action sparked criticism against OSAC and support for Rose.
The latest
• OSAC has held two meetings to discuss changing the rule, but reached no decision.
• The commission voted to ask the legislature to determine the issue at a future hearing.
• OSAC members are divided on whether a rule change would violate the 2021 law.
By the numbers
• 2: Number of OSAC meetings held to discuss the rule change
• 1: Number of warnings issued to AEW over this issue
• 2021: Year the Oklahoma law regarding transgender athletes was passed
What they’re saying
• Some OSAC members argue the law doesn’t apply to pro wrestling.
• Independent wrestler Logan Knight believes wrestling should be exempt because “it isn’t a real sport.”
What’s next
• A legislative hearing will be held to settle the matter, though no date has been set.
• AEW and Nyla Rose have not commented on the situation.
What do you think about the OSAC’s decision to seek legislative guidance on this issue? Should professional wrestling be exempt from laws regarding transgender athletes? Leave your thoughts in the comments below.
