Social media platforms have been abuzz with discussions surrounding a controversial post by Aira Lopez featuring Boss Toyo. The now-deleted post, which many netizens have condemned for displaying “toxic masculinity”, has sparked widespread debate about gender roles and respectful behavior in the cycling community and society at large.
Aira Lopez, a popular influencer known for her lifestyle content, shared a photo of her with Boss Toyo, another well-known figure in the social media sphere. The content, which appeared to be in a cycling event, depicted Boss Toyo in a manner that many viewers found problematic. In the post, Lopez captioned “Hanggang dito ba naman Boss Toyo,” triggered various social media users, given that the female vlogger is known for advocating for women’s empowerment.
The backlash was swift and significant. Various comments flooded Lopez’s post, with many expressing their disapproval, accusing her and Toyo of perpetuating harmful gender stereotypes and undermining the inclusive spirit of the cycling community.
A social media user named The Cyclelogist argued that the portrayal of Boss Toyo embodied toxic masculinity, a term used to describe cultural norms that equate masculinity with aggression, emotional repression, and dominance over others, particularly women.
Some users echoed the sentiment and commented that while women in the cycling community make efforts to prevent catcalling and other forms of harassment, what Lopez, as a female influencer, did, seemed to invite the very thing for the sake of content.
Others also pointed out that these behaviors by the so-called influencers are uncalled for as they should promote respect and equality, not outdated stereotypes of male behavior.
It can be remembered that this is also not the first time that social media users noticed Boss Toyo not wearing any support for his private part.
The controversy has rippled through the cycling community, prompting discussions about the need for inclusivity and respect. Cycling, a sport enjoyed by diverse groups of people, has been striving to shed its image as a male-dominated activity, and the incident with Lopez and Toyo threatens to undo some of the progress made toward making cycling more welcoming for everyone.
In response to the backlash, Lopez deleted her post but is yet to release a statement.
As the conversation continues, this serves as a reminder of the power and responsibility that influencers hold in shaping public perceptions. It is a call to action for all members of the cycling community to advocate for a culture of respect and inclusivity, both online and on the road.
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