Fitness Influencer Joey Swoll Quits Social Media After Facing Backlash for Hulk Hogan Tribute Costume

31 July 2025

Joey Swoll, the fitness influencer who built a loyal following by preaching gym etiquette and fostering a culture of respect in fitness spaces, has announced his decision to quit social media after a storm of backlash over a tribute costume honoring the late wrestling icon Hulk Hogan. Swoll, whose real name is Joseph Schiavo, stunned his 6.5 million Instagram followers and 3.2 million TikTok fans by posting a lengthy message late Wednesday night, explaining that the recent controversy had taken an overwhelming personal toll on his mental health and his relationship with his audience.

The backlash erupted after Swoll appeared in photos and videos wearing a full Hulk Hogan style outfit at a charity event dedicated to raising funds for children’s hospitals in Hogan’s name. His look included the wrestler’s signature yellow tank top, red bandana, and handlebar mustache a tribute Swoll intended as a heartfelt homage to a childhood hero. “Hulk Hogan was a huge part of my childhood,” Swoll wrote in his now-deleted post. “He represented strength, charisma, and larger-than-life energy. My costume wasn’t meant to offend but to celebrate his legacy and raise awareness for a cause he cared about.”

However, many on social media viewed the tribute differently, accusing Swoll of insensitivity given the timing of the event, which followed close on the heels of Hogan’s highly publicized funeral in Tampa just days earlier. Critics claimed that his appearance trivialized the somber nature of the moment and framed the costume as performative. “This isn’t how you honor someone,” one viral comment read. “This is cosplay for clout.” Others echoed the sentiment, arguing that Swoll’s execution lacked the respect the wrestling legend’s memory deserved.

As the backlash intensified, Swoll initially defended his actions in follow-up posts, emphasizing the charity context of the event and insisting his tribute was meant to inspire donations. But the online discourse quickly escalated into personal attacks, with some questioning his motives and accusing him of exploiting Hogan’s passing for attention. The heated reactions prompted Swoll to reassess his approach.

In his departure message, Swoll wrote candidly about the impact of the controversy. “I’ve always tried to use my platform for positivity, to create a safe space in gyms and online,” he said. “But this experience has shown me how quickly that can get lost in the noise. It’s not worth sacrificing my mental health or my purpose.” He also thanked his supporters for their encouragement over the years, noting that he hopes to continue his advocacy work outside the constraints of social media.

Swoll’s decision to step away leaves a noticeable void in the fitness influencer landscape. Known as the self-proclaimed “CEO of Gym Positivity,” Swoll gained fame for his viral videos calling out poor behavior in gyms, promoting kindness, and celebrating everyday people on their fitness journeys. His content resonated with audiences beyond hardcore gym-goers, turning him into a prominent voice for a more inclusive fitness culture.

Industry insiders expressed mixed feelings about his departure. Some praised his willingness to take accountability and prioritize his well-being. “Joey built a platform on respect, and walking away to protect his own mental health is consistent with that message,” said one fitness industry commentator. Others lamented the loss of a figure who brought an authentic, motivational presence to social media, particularly in a space often criticized for its toxicity.

The controversy also reignited broader discussions about the pressures faced by influencers who walk the fine line between personal expression and public scrutiny. Experts note that the parasocial nature of influencer-follower relationships can make missteps disproportionately explosive. “Influencers like Joey Swoll exist in a hyper-visible space where every action is dissected in real-time,” explained media analyst Dr. Claire Bennett. “It highlights the growing need for mental health support for public figures navigating such volatile environments.”

While Swoll has stepped away from his accounts, he hinted at future endeavors beyond the digital realm. In his statement, he revealed plans to expand his fitness advocacy work through local community programs and possibly a book detailing his journey. “This isn’t the end of my mission,” he wrote. “It’s just a different path.”

For now, his fans are left grappling with the loss of one of social media’s most outspoken advocates for gym culture reform. Some have launched hashtags like #BringBackJoey in hopes of convincing him to return, while others are sharing his past content as a reminder of the positivity he brought to their feeds. Whether his break is permanent or temporary, Swoll’s departure underscores the intense scrutiny influencers face and the deeply personal stakes of living life in the digital spotlight.