January 1, Female Jiu-Jitsu Athlete Triumphs Over Transgender Opponent’s Hidden Identity

Female Jiu-Jitsu athlete Ansleigh Wilk recently shared her experience of competing against a transgender athlete who did not disclose their biological sex beforehand.

In a video posted on Sunday, Wilk described the match that took place in July at the Submission Challenge tournament in Marietta, Georgia.

FULL VIDEOS OF ME TAPPING TRANS ATHLETE 2x. Second video you can see the full tantrum thrown after the Loss.While I won the match, this was completely undisclosed I was fighting a trans athlete and completely unfair for me to not have a choice or any preparation to prepare for… pic.twitter.com/qlVlW48zFA

— Ansleigh Wilk (@Ansleigh_mma) November 2, 2023

Wilk, a purple belt at the time, signed up for the tournament and was surprised to find out that she would be competing against a biological male.

She described feeling the athlete’s strength as soon as they clinched up, saying, “They felt so strong. I was like, oh my god, this is a very strong old lady.”

Despite the initial panic, Wilk managed to pull guard and eventually took the top position, securing a victory with an Ezekiel Choke. The two competitors were set to face each other again in a best two out of three bracket. In the second match, Wilk adjusted her strategy and won with a Paper Cutter Choke.

However, controversy arose when the referee stopped the match, claiming to have seen a tap from the transgender athlete. Wilk was ultimately named the winner of the bracket.

Wilk emphasized that her intention in sharing her experience was not to boast about defeating a transgender opponent but to give a voice to other female athletes who have felt scared in their matches.

Please take some time to listen to my experience of fighting a trans athlete in July. This was never just about it effecting me or boasting a win. This was always for the anyone else like @JaydenScrappy this traumatized; for them to have a voice and the confidence to speak out… pic.twitter.com/XmuRtP10A1

— Ansleigh Wilk (@Ansleigh_mma) October 30, 2023

She expressed disbelief at the notion that such situations are deemed acceptable.

The transgender athlete in question is 41-year-old blue belt Cordelia Gregory, who has achieved eight competition wins.

At the same tournament, Gregory also competed in the no gi blue belt female absolute bracket but did not emerge victorious. Wilk referenced two other female athletes, Jayden Alexander and Adella Carver, who had faced Gregory and expressed similar concerns.

This incident adds to a growing trend of female Jiu-Jitsu athletes withdrawing from competitions due to the presence of biological males in the female division.

Alexander shared her disappointment, stating, “For a man to be able to come in and sign up in the women’s bracket and discourage us from even being able to compete at all is absolutely heartbreaking and honestly scary.”

Wilk echoed Alexander’s sentiments, noting that many women are afraid to speak out on this issue for fear of being labeled as bigots or transphobic.

She warned that if this trend continues, women’s sports will cease to exist as medals, belts, records, and opportunities will be taken away from female athletes.

Why It Matters

The case of Ansleigh Wilk competing against a transgender athlete without prior disclosure raises important concerns about fairness in women’s sports.

It is not about denying transgender individuals their right to participate in sports but rather ensuring a level playing field for female athletes.

Wilk’s experience highlights the physical advantages that biological males often possess, which can significantly impact the outcome of competitions.

Women’s sports were created to provide equal opportunities and recognition for female athletes. Allowing biological males to compete in women’s divisions undermines the purpose of these divisions and discourages female athletes from participating.

It is not only a matter of physical differences but also the potential for psychological intimidation that can arise from facing opponents with inherent advantages.

By speaking out, Wilk and other female athletes are shedding light on a growing trend that threatens the existence of women’s sports. It is crucial to address these concerns without fear of being labeled as bigots or transphobic.

If this trend continues unchecked, it will erode the integrity of women’s sports and deny female athletes the recognition and opportunities they deserve.

As our loyal readers, we encourage you to share your thoughts and opinions on this issue. Let your voice be heard and join the discussion below.

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