In Hollywood it has become relatively common for stars to reveal their homosexuality, but this is not the case in the world of professional boxing.

In fact, there has never been a pro boxer to come out of the closet while still active in the sport. That changed Wednesday when Orlando Cruz, a 31-year-old featherweight, released a statement that said, “I have always been and will always be a proud gay man.” Cruz, who was a member of the Puerto Rican Olympic boxing team in 2000, also said being closeted was a major “distraction,” but that he has received “unconditional, 100% support” from colleagues, celebrities, and fans after coming out.

How big of a milestone is it for LGBT community to have an active professional male boxer reveal that he is gay? Might Cruz’s revelation be a watershed moment that encourages other prominent men and women to be open about their homosexuality?

Guest:

Lance Pugmire, sports reporter, Los Angeles Times