Content creator Joey Swolls has recently found himself at the center of controversy after expressing support for the late wrestling icon Hulk Hogan, provoking backlash over Hogan’s controversial history. Following Hogan’s passing, Swolls posted a video of himself in a Hulk Hogan costume, which many perceived as an endorsement of the wrestling star despite his past racist comments.

In a TikTok live session addressing the backlash, Swolls defended his actions by stating, “Just because somebody makes a mistake in their life doesn’t mean that they haven’t done good things.” He emphasized that he was not aware of the extent of Hogan’s troubled history and criticized those who were targeting him for his support, suggesting that they should also hold accountable other public figures who had posted tributes to Hogan.

However, it was Swolls’ use of the term “colored” to refer to Black individuals that drew significant criticism. The phrase, which many consider outdated and offensive, led to a swift response from social media users who expressed their dismay. Recognizing the impact of his words, Swolls later issued an apology, stating that he had learned about the insensitivity of his language and promised to do better in the future.

In his apology, Swolls acknowledged that he was initially defensive when confronted about his post, which he intended as a tribute to a childhood icon. He expressed regret for not listening to his audience’s concerns sooner and admitted that he had underestimated the hurt caused by Hogan’s past actions.

As discussions about accountability and growth continue, Swolls’ situation underscores a larger conversation around public figures navigating their legacies and the complexities of past mistakes. While he maintains that people can change and should be forgiven, many are questioning whether his apology is genuine or merely a response to public pressure.

The controversy surrounding Swolls highlights the ongoing challenges faced by content creators in addressing sensitive topics, particularly when they intersect with race and historical injustices. As audiences demand greater accountability from public figures, Swolls’ experience serves as a reminder of the importance of language and the impact of past actions on current perceptions.

As the conversation evolves, it remains to be seen how Swolls will navigate his platform moving forward and whether his commitment to growth will resonate with those who felt offended by his initial remarks. The incident reflects a broader societal challenge, emphasizing the need for understanding and sensitivity in discussions about race and historical context.