Ryan Bucu Joins Rams Cheerleaders After Breaking Barriers on UCLA Dance Team

With graduation just a few days away, Ryan Bucu is continuing to break down gender barriers within cheerleading. After becoming the second male dancer on UCLA’s dance team, Bucu is joining the Los Angeles Rams cheerleaders for the 2026 season.

Devin Mallory was the first male dancer on UCLA’s dance team in 2019. Bucu became the second when he made the team on his second attempt as a junior last year. Bucu told the Daily Bruin he was inspired by Mallory’s story and wants to continue inspiring younger generations of male dancers and cheerleaders.

“Being able to have that title as the second male member in history, I will forever carry that with me and within my dance legacy,” Bucu said, per the Daily Bruin. “I need to always be performing for everyone in the crowd and showing younger generations that if you want to grow up and dance as well, become a cheerleader for a major university, … that you can do it.”

By Joining the Rams, Bucu is Building Space for Men in Cheerleading

The Rams became the first NFL team to feature male cheerleaders on its squad in 2018. As of 2026, there are still several NFL teams, like the Las Vegas Raiders and Dallas Cowboys, that do not have male cheerleaders.

The Rams currently have four male cheerleaders on its roster. Bucu will be added to that group next season.

“Why I auditioned for the Rams is because I want to continue showing male visibility in spaces that may not be conventional,” Bucu said. “(I value) showing that male cheerleaders are a thing and pushing that agenda that males can be dancers and cheerleaders as well as females, too.”

There is still a long way to go in creating a welcoming space for men in cheerleading. But Bucu is helping the sport take steps in the right direction.

The post Ryan Bucu Joins Rams Cheerleaders After Breaking Barriers on UCLA Dance Team appeared first on LA Sports Report.