Ivan Provorov Boycotts Philadelphia Flyers’ Pride Night

People have learned to fight for their rights throughout the years. Popular sports and athletes have also subscribed to the idea and have supported the LGBTQ+ community as society progresses. However, Flyers’ Ivan Provorov has boycotted his team’s pride night.

Provorov didn’t participate in pregame warmups when the team. The team wore Pride-themed jerseys and used sticks wrapped in rainbow Pride tape. It wasn’t until the Flyers switched back to their normal uniforms that he joined the team.

The Flyers’ defensemen defended his decision to boycott the event due to his Russian orthodox beliefs. He however later said that he respects everyone’s choices but will stick to his beliefs and values. Reporters attempted to ask Provorov further questions about the decision but he shut them down.

“I respect everybody and I respect everybody’s choices. My choice is to stay true to myself and my religion. That’s all I’m going to say.”

The Flyers’ player, a native of Russia, faced criticism for the boycott on social media. John Tortorella, the team’s coach, supported Provorov’s position. He said he respected Ivan for being firm in his convictions and committed to his choices.

The Flyers opted to wear the pregame kits. They also wrapped their sticks with rainbow-colored tape in order to promote inclusivity in a sport that’s historically struggled with diversity. Items of the team’s players were auctioned before the game to raise proceeds for helping people diversify the game.

The NHL has yet to comment on the boycott by Ivan Provorov. The Flyers have supported the LGBTQ+ community for years but Provorov doesn’t want to be associated with the movement.

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