Popular fitness influencer Joey Swoll is at the centre of a major online storm, facing severe backlash and accusations of transphobia and misgendering. The controversy erupted after a video he posted about a transgender individual in a Canadian gym went viral, splitting public opinion between concerns for safety and accusations of discriminatory language.
The Viral Video That Started the Firestorm
Last week, Joey Swoll took to his social media platform X to share what he described as one of the most disturbing clips he had ever received. In the video, he addressed allegations involving a transgender person at a gym in Canada. Swoll claimed the individual was filming explicit adult content inside a women's locker room, and also recording material on the general gym floor.
He expressed frustration, questioning why someone could not simply work out respectfully. Swoll also raised a safety alarm, pointing out that minors frequently use such shared gym facilities. Through his own investigation, he identified the gym as a GoodLife Fitness location in Canada based on the individual's online profile.
Swoll's Update and the Gym's Alleged Action
The situation took a new turn four days later, on December 21, 2025, when Swoll posted a follow-up update on X. He announced that the person involved had reportedly been banned from all gyms. Swoll stated he had contacted GoodLife Fitness directly regarding the matter.
While he mentioned that legal restrictions prevented the company from sharing specific disciplinary details, Swoll asserted that their response clearly indicated such behaviour results in a full ban. He also cited an anonymous gym employee who allegedly confirmed the individual was no longer permitted access. Swoll thanked the gym chain for taking action to protect its members.
In his message, he urged people to report anyone filming sexual or adult content in public or shared spaces like gyms, emphasising that these spaces must remain safe and respectful environments for everyone.
Online Backlash and Accusations of Transphobia
Despite Swoll's focus on gym safety, a significant portion of the online reaction zeroed in on his choice of words and how he referred to the transgender person. While some users supported his message about maintaining safe gym environments, many others slammed his language as crossing a line.
A strong chorus of critics accused him of being transphobic, arguing that even if the allegations of inappropriate filming were true, his delivery and terminology were harmful and disrespectful. The debate quickly expanded beyond the specific incident to a broader discussion about transgender people sharing female locker rooms and the language used in such sensitive discourses.
As of now, Joey Swoll has not publicly responded to the specific accusations of transphobia levelled against him. The online debate, however, continues to rage, highlighting the deep divisions and heightened sensitivities around issues of gender identity, safety, and public discourse.
