Velveteen Dream on being considered gender-neutral

WWE NXT’s flamboyant bad boy has been making waves ever since his debut in 2015.

In the Velveteen Dream’s epic feud with Aleister Black last year, “say my name” was the mantra of the DC-born, 23-year-old performer. It seems the wrestling world has listened, as it is almost impossible to talk about NXT without bringing up the enigmatic Dream.

In a recent interview with Washington City Paper, Dream spoke about fans referring to him as gender non-conforming and androgynous.

“I can’t make anything of those descriptions of Velveteen Dream. I don’t consider myself either of those. It’s very hard for a performer to take that outside look. I’m a very introspective individual. It’s hard for me to label myself or characterize myself.”

It seems that Dream still wants the mystery to shroud his character; much as the basis for his gimmick, the music legend Prince, shrouded his identity with mystique.

“I do believe that current performers in WWE, more specifically in NXT, we have more freedom to be ourselves. I can say the people you see on TV are real-life individuals, not just people playing a role, myself included.”

It will be interesting to see how WWE allows the Velveteen Dream character to evolve, especially as the company continues to move towards a more progressive message.

What do you think of Dream’s response? Let us know in the comments, on Twitter or on Discord today!

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