WHAT JUST HAPPENED: David Muir Calls Brittney Griner a “Bitch” on Live TV Amid Explosive WNBA Gender Identity Scandal
In a shocking moment that left audiences stunned, ABC News anchor David Muir has come under heavy fire after he appeared to refer to WNBA star Brittney Griner as a “bitch” during a live segment discussing gender identity in professional women’s sports. The comment came just moments after Muir covered breaking news that the Women’s National Basketball
Association (WNBA) will begin mandatory gender testing for all players starting next season — a move that has ignited outrage, fear, and fierce debate across the sports world.
The segment aired during a prime-time broadcast of World News Tonight, where Muir covered the WNBA’s unprecedented new policy. As he transitioned from a summary of the league’s official statement to a brief mention of Brittney Griner — who has long been the subject of gender-based speculation and public scrutiny — Muir was caught on a hot mic muttering what sounded like, “That bitch has been hiding it for years.”
Within seconds, the clip was circulating across social media platforms, with reactions ranging from disbelief to fury. Hashtags like #FireDavidMuir, #IStandWithGriner, and #WNBAWitchHunt quickly began trending on X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, and Instagram.
A League Under Fire
At the heart of this controversy is the WNBA’s sudden announcement of a mandatory gender verification policy, which the league claims is aimed at ensuring “fairness and transparency” in the wake of rising questions around gender identity in professional sports. The league’s official statement reads:
“Beginning with the 2026 season, all WNBA players will undergo a standard gender verification process, conducted by a third-party panel. Our goal is to maintain competitive integrity while respecting the rights and identities of all players.”
The backlash was immediate. Civil rights organizations, athlete advocacy groups, and countless fans condemned the move as a deeply invasive, humiliating, and unnecessary step that threatens the safety and dignity of players — particularly those who are LGBTQ+, gender-nonconforming, or simply do not fit conventional beauty standards.
The Human Rights Campaign called the policy “a dangerous regression into discriminatory practices,” and the ACLU warned that it opens the door for racial and gender profiling. Critics argue that policies like these are often disproportionately enforced against Black women and tall, muscular athletes — such as Brittney Griner.
The Griner Targeting
Brittney Griner, one of the WNBA’s most recognized athletes, has long been the subject of cruel rumors regarding her gender. Despite being a cisgender woman, her appearance and voice have led to years of online harassment and conspiracy theories.
Griner, who made headlines in 2022 after being detained in Russia, has largely stayed silent about the rumors — choosing instead to focus on her career and advocacy work. But now, with her name once again dragged into public debate, many are speaking out in her defense.
NBA star LeBron James tweeted, “You don’t disrespect a legend like that. Brittney is a queen and deserves nothing but respect.”
Meanwhile, WNBA players across multiple teams have reportedly begun preparing a joint statement condemning the league’s new policy and calling for transparency and reform.
David Muir in Hot Water
As for David Muir, ABC News has not yet issued an official statement regarding the alleged on-air slur. But behind the scenes, internal sources say the network is facing immense pressure to take action. ABC’s newsroom has already been flooded with emails and calls demanding an apology — or his immediate removal.
If confirmed, the remark would mark a shocking misstep for the veteran anchor, who is widely known for his composed and professional demeanor. Whether it was a misheard phrase or an intentional comment, the damage may already be done.
Media watchdogs and diversity advocates are demanding accountability. “This isn’t just about a word — it’s about how media figures shape public attitudes toward women, especially Black women in sports,” said one advocacy group.
What Happens Next?
With the 2026 WNBA season approaching and tensions rising by the day, the league faces a critical moment that could redefine its future. Will it listen to players and fans calling for fairness and privacy? Or will it enforce a policy that critics say amounts to state-sponsored body shaming?
As for Brittney Griner, she has not responded publicly to either Muir’s alleged slur or the WNBA’s announcement. Her representatives said only that she is “focused on basketball and grateful for the love and support from the community.”
One thing is clear: this controversy is far from over. And as conversations around gender, identity, and equality continue to evolve, the world will be watching — closely.
