WWE wrestler Darren Young comes out to public

Darren Young became the first WWE pro wrestler to publically come out as a gay man, CBS Washington reported.

Young, who is a member of the Prime Time Players with Titus O'Neil, came out to TMZ when asked if he thought a gay wrestler could be successful in WWE.

"Absolutely," he said. "Look at me. I'm a WWE Superstar and to be honest with you, right now, I'll tell you I'm gay and I'm happy. Very happy."

Young's disclosure is not part of his onscreen character.

"Some people might not like it, some people will like it ... But I'm here to be happy," he said. "It's very important I'm happy with myself."

WWE said they're supportive of the athlete's decision to come out.

"WWE is proud of Darren Young for being open about his sexuality, and we will continue to support him as a WWE Superstar," a statement read, according to CBS Washington.

The wrestling organization has been praised for its philanthropic work, including an anti-bullying effort Be A STAR. Young is scheduled to participate in a Be A STAR rally Thursday in Los Angeles.

Young, 29, is not the first openly gay wrestler in the history of WWE, but he is the first to come out to the public. Other openly gay wrestlers have come out in the confines of the locker room.

Young follows in the footsteps of Jason Collins, who became the first openly gay active NBA player earlier this year.