A Tattoo With a Surprising Backstory

The double armband tattoo has gained traction in the LGBTQ+ community, especially among gay men. At first glance, it seems like just a stylish ink choice. But dig a little deeper, and you’ll uncover a backstory that’s far more risqué — and definitely not grandma-friendly.

When Tattoos Mean More Than You Think

Tattoos with unintended meanings aren’t new. We’ve all heard stories of people unknowingly getting offensive foreign phrases inked on their bodies. But what about a tattoo accidentally linked to… fisting?

Yes, really.

The Origins: Porn, BDSM, and Brent Everett

The double armband tattoo, now common in LGBTQ+ circles, actually has roots in BDSM culture. According to Pink News, the design gained popularity through adult film star Brent Everett. In that world, the tattoo is sometimes seen as a visual cue tied to anal fisting — a marker of how deep someone can go.

Author and TikToker Mr. Lewis Laney, who has the tattoo, explained:
“I often get asked by gay men what it means. They assume it has something to do with fisting… the origins allegedly come from that — it’s how far you can go.”

However, Laney didn’t choose it for that reason.
“I saw it on Brent Everett when I was in my early 20s. When I turned 30, I got it. And I still like it!”

Internet Theories and Tattoo Talk

On Reddit, users have debated the tattoo’s meaning. Some claim, “It says ‘I’m a fister,’ and the band shows how far I go.” Others credit Everett for popularizing the design. The result? A mix of intrigue and misunderstanding.

Not Everyone Sees the Same Thing

Despite its steamy associations, the tattoo has taken on other meanings. Some interpret the bands as a symbol of LGBTQ+ equality — representing balance or unity, like an equal sign.

Others keep it lighthearted, joking it symbolizes the skill of reaching into a Pringles can. Let’s be honest — that’s no small feat either.

Mourning, Strength, and Pop Culture

Single armband tattoos also carry meaning. They’ve long symbolized mourning, strength, or luck. Placement on the arm can even alter interpretation.

Celebrities have added their own spin. Fans of Tyler Joseph from Twenty One Pilots have gotten matching tattoos inspired by his double armband ink.

So, Should You Judge a Tattoo by Its Ink?

Some joke that women should steer clear of guys with this tattoo. But that’s likely an overstatement. While the double armband might signal BDSM ties for some, others wear it purely for style, tribute, or personal meaning.

Final Thoughts

The double armband tattoo may have started in a niche community, but it now spans a wide range of interpretations. From bold sexual signals to fashion statements or symbols of identity — it’s become a conversation starter more than anything.

So next time you see one, don’t assume. The meaning might surprise you — or mean nothing at all.