WWE Hall of Famer Rick Steiner is set to appear at WrestleCon in Detroit this August, just months after allegations of transphobic comments directed at wrestler Gisele Shaw surfaced. The announcement of Steiner's appearance, alongside his brother Scott, coincides with WWE's SummerSlam event in the same city. Steiner had previously been banned from WrestleCon following the accusations in April.

WrestleCon owner Michael Bochicchio addressed the situation, acknowledging Steiner's "completely inappropriate remarks" and admitting to past mistakes in handling the incident. Bochicchio explained that while Steiner did privately apologize to staff and fellow wrestlers, Shaw declined to participate, a decision Bochicchio fully supported. He emphasized that Steiner's actions had significant repercussions, impacting his reputation and relationships within the wrestling community.

Bochicchio expressed belief in Steiner's remorse and the importance of second chances, while also making it clear that Steiner is now under a zero-tolerance policy at future WrestleCon events. Any further transgressions will result in a permanent ban. Bochicchio reiterated WrestleCon's commitment to providing a safe and inclusive environment.

Neither Shaw nor Impact Wrestling have publicly responded to WrestleCon's decision. Shaw originally shared the allegations on Twitter, describing Steiner's comments as "shocking and disheartening." She came out as transgender in 2022 and has a well-established presence in the independent wrestling scene.

Steiner, 62, is best known for his time in World Championship Wrestling, particularly his tag-team partnership with his brother Scott. The Steiner Brothers were inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2022.