This man is incredible!
Rob Kearney is the world’s second strongest professional Strongman champ, but his heart is even stronger than that!
The competitor came out last week by posting a picture of himself and his boyfriend Joey (above), declaring:
“My ├óΓé¼┬¬#├óΓé¼┼╜mcm├óΓé¼┬¼ goes to this guy, my boyfriend, Joey Aleixo! The past few months have been crazy, but throughout all of this you’ve given me a reason to smile. So I guess this is me coming out and saying… I’m gay!!”
[ Photos: Celebs Who Are Out! ]
He was met with an overwhelming response, and in one of his first interviews since, Rob talked about his decision to show the world who he really is! He explained his choice to come out, saying:
“I 100 percent decided to come out now because of my boyfriend. He and I have been together for two months and I didn’t want to hide it anymore (I’m sort of a romantic). Had it not been for him I would not have decided to take the leap and come out and who knows where I would be today without him.”
That is freaking adorable!
Rob went on to talk about how he’s been met with almost nothing but positivity, but added:
“There are a few idiots who are against me, but I expected that.”
Sad but true. It’s great that he’s seen more support than negativity though! And as for why he decided to make the announcement, Rob explained:
“I hope people realize that being gay doesn’t change the athlete/person I am. I am still the second strongest 105kg Professional Strongman in America and I am still the same Rob Kearney they knew before this news. This is the happiest I have ever been and it feels damn good to say “I love you” and really feel it. Be happy, and be you… that’s what matters in life.”
When he’s not preparing for his next competition, Rob is getting his Masters Degree in advanced athletic training with a concentration in athletic rehabilitation — and of course, spending time with Joey!
We’re so excited for Rob’s new freedom to be himself and show off how happy he is! Kudos!
[Image via Rob Kearney/Facebook.]