In a shocking and racially charged outburst, conservative sports activist Riley Gaines has ignited a firestorm after mocking Olympic legend Simone Biles in a now-viral interview, reportedly reducing the gymnast to tears in just seven words.
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The incident occurred during a heated segment on The Hard Truth with Clay Travis , where Gaines, a former NCAA swimmer and outspoken critic of transgender athletes in women’s sports, was questioned about Biles’ recent comments championing inclusivity in athletics. Gaines, known for his combative style, smiled before delivering the incendiary comment:
“Sorry, Simone, stay in your lane, kiddo.”
The racially charged phrase immediately drew gasps from the studio audience. Critics argue that Gaines’s word choice, particularly the condescending use of the word “girl” toward a Black woman, overshadows historical racial microaggressions meant to diminish Black excellence.
Within minutes, social media exploded, with #rileygainesiscancelled and #standwithsimone trending worldwide. Biles’ supporters, including fellow Olympians and civil rights leaders, condemned Gaines’s comments as “disgusting” and “a blatant attempt to put a Black woman in her place.”
Biles, who was watching the interview live, reportedly broke down in tears during a subsequent Instagram Live session, where fans rallied behind her with messages of love and solidarity.
Gaines later doubled down in a tweet, writing, “The truth hurts. Women’s sports are for biological women. If that offends you, maybe sports aren’t for you.” The post has been flagged for hate speech.
As the backlash grows, sponsors are reconsidering ties with Gaines, while Biles has already been flooded with support from athletes like Serena Williams, LeBron James, and even some conservative figures who called Gaines’ approach “a bridge too far.”
Was Gaines’ comment racially motivated? Or is this another battle in the culture wars? Sound off below.
