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Diego Miyake Mugler: A Fusion of Artistry and Athleticism
READ TIME: 23 MIN.
Diego Miyake Mugler, a trailblazer in both the ballroom and bodybuilding worlds, recently shared his unique perspective with Queerty in a candid interview that explored the fusion of artistry, athleticism, and LGBTQ+ pride. Mugler’s career, which spans nearly two decades, has been defined by his relentless pursuit of self-expression and community empowerment, making him a standout figure for LGBTQ+ audiences worldwide.
Mugler first rose to international prominence as a voguer in the ballroom scene—a performance culture rooted in the Harlem LGBTQ+ community that celebrates dance, fashion, and chosen family. His artistry and advocacy came to mainstream attention when he won season 2 of HBO Max’s "Legendary", a competition series that brought ballroom into living rooms around the world. For Mugler, ballroom is more than just a performance—it’s a form of resistance, a celebration of queer identity, and a safe haven for those who might not fit into conventional molds.
In his conversation with Queerty, Mugler reflected on the formative impact of ballroom: “It taught me to be unapologetically myself, to use my body and my presence as a statement. Ballroom is about more than movement; it’s about reclaiming space and telling our stories through every gesture,” he shared.
While Mugler’s ballroom accolades are well known, his recent foray into competitive bodybuilding marks a new chapter in his journey. As a gay man, Mugler has navigated—and challenged—the stereotypes and expectations of both the fitness and LGBTQ+ communities. “There’s always been a connection between queer culture and bodybuilding, but it’s rarely acknowledged in mainstream spaces,” Mugler observed. Historically, homoerotic imagery and bodybuilding have co-existed, yet out LGBTQ+ athletes have often felt marginalized within the sport.
Mugler’s success in bodybuilding is a testament not only to his physical prowess but also to his commitment to visibility. “Training isn’t just about building muscle—it’s about building confidence and showing others that you belong,” Mugler told Queerty. By competing openly as a gay man, Mugler seeks to inspire other LGBTQ+ athletes to pursue their passions without fear of discrimination.
In addition to his achievements in ballroom and bodybuilding, Mugler is renowned for his bold fashion choices, particularly his penchant for thigh-high boots—a symbol of defiance and self-affirmation within queer fashion culture. He recounted to Queerty how strutting in thigh-high boots is more than a stylistic statement; it’s a celebration of gender fluidity and the freedom to express oneself beyond societal norms.
“Thigh-high boots make me feel powerful,” Mugler explained. “They challenge people’s expectations about masculinity and femininity, especially in the context of bodybuilding, where rigid ideas about gender still exist. I want people to see that strength comes in many forms, and that fashion can be a tool for self-love and liberation,” he said.
Mugler’s journey is shaped by the intersectionality of his experiences as a gay man, ballroom performer, and athlete. He continues to use his platform to advocate for greater inclusion and representation for transgender people, non-binary individuals, and others across the LGBTQ+ spectrum. “The ballroom scene has always been a refuge for those who are marginalized, and I want to make sure we keep that legacy alive, both on stage and in every gym I enter,” Mugler told Queerty.
He also highlighted the importance of mentorship within the LGBTQ+ community, noting that guidance from elders and peers has been instrumental in his career. “We need to lift each other up. Whether you’re just starting out or have been in the game for years, everyone has something to teach and something to learn,” Mugler said.
The increased visibility of ballroom culture, particularly through outlets like *Legendary*, has sparked broader conversations about LGBTQ+ representation in media and sports. Mugler commended the growing recognition of ballroom’s influence but cautioned that mainstream platforms must continue to honor its roots and the communities that sustain it. “Ballroom is not just entertainment—it’s a lifeline for so many of us,” he emphasized.
He encouraged media organizations to feature diverse voices and stories, particularly those of transgender people and people of color, who have historically been at the forefront of ballroom culture.
Diego Miyake Mugler’s conversation with Queerty serves as both a reflection on his personal journey and a call to action for greater inclusion within all spheres of LGBTQ+ life. His willingness to challenge norms—whether through dance, athletics, or fashion—continues to inspire audiences to embrace authenticity and celebrate diversity.
As Mugler looks to the future, he remains committed to uplifting marginalized voices and expanding the visibility of LGBTQ+ athletes and artists. “Our stories matter—on the runway, on the stage, in the gym, and everywhere else. I hope my journey shows that you can be proud, bold, and unapologetically yourself, no matter where you are,” Mugler concluded.
