The fallout from Zayda Steel’s sudden Twitter disappearance just got even bigger. Wrestling promoter Gabe Sapolsky has now weighed in on the harassment surrounding Steel, making it clear he’s had enough of so-called “fans” turning the industry into a toxic battlefield.

Taking to Twitter, Sapolsky didn’t hold back in addressing the situation. “I normally don’t post about this kind of stuff and try to keep it positive and civil on here. I plan to make my tweets protected this Wednesday.”

His frustration comes after reports surfaced that Steel had been targeted by online trolls, some of whom even suggested AEW’s Megan Bayne should injure her in their upcoming match for GCW. Sapolsky slammed the toxic behavior, writing, “I just heard of some tribalism BS with ‘fans’ wishing injury and worse on a young talent because they are wrestling someone from a different ‘tribe.’ If you do this, get a life. Seriously. How sad is your life?”

He went on to call out negativity in the wrestling community, saying, “When I see negative tweeting, I just think ‘how unhappy is this person with their life?’ Guess what, you can put your energy to changing your life and finding happiness.”

Advertising
Advertising

Sapolsky also shut down the idea that anyone in the wrestling business actually cares about online tribalism. “Just so everyone knows, there’s not one professional person actually in wrestling who cares about any of this tribalism. Not one.”

His final message was simple: enjoy the wrestling you love, and let others do the same. “Wrestling is an art form like music. There is no right or wrong. It’s just what you enjoy. Let people enjoy and follow the path they want. Who are you to wish them ill?”

Sapolsky, who is set to be involved in WWE’s new ID program, has long been a respected figure in talent development. With WWE launching its initiative to help rising stars break into the industry, his words carry even more weight in addressing the negativity surrounding young wrestlers like Steel.

Zayda Steel has yet to return to Twitter, and the exact reason for her departure remains unconfirmed. But with the conversation growing, it’s clear the toxicity in wrestling fandom is becoming harder to ignore.

Do you think online tribalism has gotten out of control in wrestling? Please share your thoughts and feedback in the comment section below.

Steve Carrier is the founder of Ringside News and has been reporting on pro wrestling since 1997. His stories have been featured on TMZ, Forbes, Bleacher Report, and more.

Disqus Comments Loading...