Minnesota Vikings Face Backlash Over Male Cheerleaders
When the Minnesota Vikings announced Blaize Shiek and Louie Conn as male cheerleaders for the 2025 NFL season, it was part of a broader league trend toward co-ed squads. This move, however, sparked a fierce conservative backlash, with some fans threatening on social media to cancel their season tickets. The controversy escalated when, according to multiple reports, former NFL star Antonio Brown targeted Shiek with a homophobic slur — turning what could have been a progressive milestone into a heated culture war. This clash highlights a collision between tradition and inclusion, with outrage, fear of fan abandonments, and skepticism about the motives behind the backlash.
Continuing a Tradition, Not Starting One
Contrary to some reports, Blaize Shiek and Louie Conn are not the Vikings' first male cheerleaders. The Minnesota Vikings have acknowledged that male cheerleaders have been part of their teams in the past and have long been associated with collegiate and professional cheerleading. The announcement of Shiek and Conn continues this tradition, reflecting the evolving face of NFL cheer squads.
In an email shared with Newsweek, the Minnesota Vikings wrote, "In 2025, approximately one third of NFL teams have male cheerleaders. Every member of the Minnesota Vikings Cheerleaders program has an impressive dance background and went through the same rigorous audition process. Individuals were selected because of their talent, passion for dance and dedication to elevating the game day experience. We support all our cheerleaders and are proud of the role they play as ambassadors of the organization."
Likewise, one account on X, MLFootball, shared a post saying, "12 #NFL TEAMS WILL REPORTEDLY HAVE MALE CHEERLEADERS ON THEIR CHEERLEADING SQUAD THIS SEASON," before listing the following teams: Vikings, Ravens, Rams, Saints, Eagles, 49ers, Patriots, Titans, Colts, Chiefs, Buccaneers and Panthers. This number represents a significant portion of the league, signaling a growing acceptance of gender diversity in cheerleading.
Blaize Shiek's Excitement and Message
Blaize Shiek shared his enthusiasm for joining the Vikings cheerleading squad on Instagram, saying, "Rookie Year Excited and honored to share that I am officially a 2025-26 Minnesota Vikings Cheerleader! I am so grateful for this journey, the support, and the opportunity to make a little history along the way. I hope to represent and inspire what's possible when you stay true to who you are. MVC Blaize," as reported by Newsweek.
Conservative Backlash and Social Media Threats
The Vikings' decision to include male cheerleaders ignited a wave of backlash on social media, particularly from conservative and MAGA-aligned fans. Many expressed frustration and disappointment, with some reportedly threatening to cancel their season tickets or boycott the team. These threats, while vocal and widespread online, have not been confirmed as actual cancellations but reflect the intensity of the reaction.
According to Newsweek, comments included accusations that the NFL is pushing a "woke" agenda that undermines traditional football values. Some users lamented the presence of male cheerleaders as a reason to avoid both the Vikings and the NFL altogether.
Antonio Brown's Public Criticism
The controversy took a darker turn when Antonio Brown, a former NFL wide receiver known for his polarizing behavior, publicly targeted Blaize Shiek on social media. According to multiple reports, Brown posted a homophobic slur alongside a video of Shiek, a move widely condemned for its offensive nature and which intensified the debate about inclusion and respect within the NFL community.
Brown's history of controversial outbursts has often overshadowed his athletic achievements, and this incident reinforced the challenges the league faces in balancing progressive change with the passions of its diverse fanbase.
Tradition Versus Inclusion: A Divided Fanbase
The backlash against male cheerleaders reflects a broader cultural clash within football fandom. Critics argue that cheerleading should remain a space primarily for women, preserving a long-standing image tied to the game-day experience. Supporters point out that male cheerleaders have been part of the sport's history since its origins, and that embracing them reflects modern values of equality and diversity.
This debate is part of a larger culture war playing out in the NFL, which has faced criticism from some fans for its recent embrace of diversity, including the display of pride flags and performances of the Black national anthem. The Vikings' male cheerleaders became the latest flashpoint, exposing deep divisions among supporters.
The Vikings' Response and Support
The Minnesota Vikings have stood firmly behind their cheerleaders, emphasizing that all members of the squad undergo the same rigorous audition process based on talent, passion, and dedication. The team highlighted that male cheerleaders have been part of their history and that the current additions are ambassadors who elevate the game-day experience.
Many fans and commentators have also voiced support for the male cheerleaders, praising their skill and commitment. Some have criticized the backlash as unproductive and urged fans to focus on the sport rather than the gender of cheerleaders.
Looking Ahead: The Season Opener and Beyond
The Vikings are set to debut their updated cheerleading squad on Monday Night Football against the Chicago Bears, with kickoff reportedly scheduled for 8:15 p.m. ET on Sept. 8, 2025. This high-profile stage will showcase the team's commitment to inclusivity and the evolving nature of NFL cheerleading.
A Cultural Crossroads for Football
The presence of male cheerleaders on the Vikings' squad symbolizes a cultural crossroads where tradition and progress collide. For some fans, it challenges their understanding of football's identity. For others, it represents a welcome step toward a more inclusive and representative sport.
References: Vikings Under Fire Over Male Cheerleaders | 'F*ggot of the Day': Antonio Brown fuels outrage with offensive remark about Vikings' male cheerleader amid fan controversy | Minnesota Vikings face backlash after hiring male cheerleaders for 2025 NFL season: 'Dumbest move' | Male Cheerleader Mocks MAGA's NFL Meltdown | NFL Minnesota Vikings' male cheerleaders respond to football player 'f*ggot' insult: 'Wait… Did someone say our name?'
