Boxing champion Orlando Cruz made international headlines last year when he came out as the world’s first openly gay pro boxer. Now, after more than a year of being out, he’s reflecting on his decision and saying he did it all for respect.
In a new video interview with The Guardian, Cruz opened up about his decision to come out as gay, saying, “I want respect. That’s it. It’s my decision, it’s my life.” Cruz added that 95 percent of the feedback he’s received since coming out has been positive.
Besides the accolades for his honesty, Cruz is also focusing on training for his upcoming fight with Mexico’s Orlando Salido for the World Boxing Organization’s featherweight title.
Well, we hope the accolades continue and perhaps Cruz will snag another title in the process as well. Check out some other openly gay athletes below. –nicholas robinson
