NHL player Ivan Provorov of the Philadelphia Flyers today refused to wear an LGBTQ+ themed rainbow jersey during warmups ahead of the team’s game against the Anaheim Ducks.
Provorov cited his Russian Orthodox Christian faith as the reason for not partaking in the team’s “Pride Night” display.
“I respect everybody’s choices,” Provorov said after the game. “My choice is to stay true to myself and my religion. That’s all I’m going to say.”
Watch Proporov’s interview on Spreely.video:
Provorov decided not to skate with other members of his team during warmups as they wore the rainbow jerseys, but did participate in the game.
Flyers coach John Tortorella defended his Russian player when asked about the decision by reporters. “With Provy, he’s being true to himself and to his religion,” Tortorella said.
In a statement released by a Flyers spokesperson, the team maintains that they are supportive of LGBTQ+ rights and organizations.
A Philadelphia Flyers player refused to wear the team’s LGBTQ pride uniforms tonight citing his religious beliefs. Now, predictably, the left wing sports media are attacking him. https://t.co/VVHea0eVzt
— Clay Travis (@ClayTravis) January 18, 2023
“The Philadelphia Flyers organization is committed to inclusivity and is proud to support the LGBTQ+ community. Many of our players are active in their support of local LGBTQ+ organizations, and we were proud to host our annual Pride Night again this year. The Flyers will continue to be strong advocates for inclusivity and the LGBTQ+ community,” the statement reads.
The NHL released a statement defending Provorov’s decision, noting that players are not forced to support social or cultural initiatives.
“Players are free to decide which initiatives to support, and we continue to encourage their voices and perspectives on social and cultural issues,” the NHL said.
Liberals online are upset that the Russian player refused to divulge in the LGBTQ+ display.
“Ivan Provorov was allowed to play in a game for the Philadelphia Flyers – the organization that was the first to say that you will be removed from the arena if you utter a homophobic slur – after refusing to wear a Pride logo for warm ups,” tweeted Steph Driver. “What an absolute disgrace.
Ivan Provorov was allowed to play in a game for the Philadelphia Flyers – the organization that was the first to say that you will be removed from the arena if you utter a homophobic slur – after refusing to wear a Pride logo for warm ups.
What an absolute disgrace.
— Steph Driver (@StephaliciousD) January 18, 2023
“Provorov really found his people yesterday with his lack of inclusiveness. The vileness coming from that group is why we have Pride night and why it is so important,” tweeted user @HeatherOpines.
Provorov really found his people yesterday with his lack of inclusiveness. The vileness coming from that group is why we have Pride night and why it is so important. #IvanProvorov #nhl
— Heather☮️ (@HeatherOpines) January 18, 2023
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daniel sullivan
January 19, 2023 at 4:00 pm
I am so glad he stood up for his rights – let me tell this queer community that the belief and way of life you choose – good for you – but don’t ram you shit up our ass – we are not all queer and want nothing to do with – tiered of your silly bull shit
ESMH
January 19, 2023 at 6:22 pm
Everybody is Sick of FAGS , Fag Queen Read a Story hour , Tran-o’s , and Bitchy Lesbians’ !!
No one Cares what the fuck you do at your house , Just Leave Everyone Else Alone to Live their Non Homo Lives !!
Buddy
January 20, 2023 at 8:41 pm
Damn perverted Queers and savage negroes ruin everything.
Neither one of those two groups can tolerate an all-White and/or heterosexual anything. What hypocrisy! They both strong-arm their way into colleges, sports, the entertainment industry and destroy businesses while screaming about diversity, inclusion, equity and equality. Fcking hypocrites.
bob
January 21, 2023 at 11:39 am
BRAVO to Provorov for standing up for his beliefs and not bowing to the queers , he-she’s , trans FREAKS and othe liberal sexual degenerates. Also , PISS on the Philadelphia Flyers for bowing and caving in to the minority of the queer FREAKS !!