2:25 PM PT -- The National Enquirer says Richard Simmons' lawsuit is ironic ... since he claims to support LGBTQ rights, and is now claiming he was defamed by its story he was transitioning to a woman.
What's really ironic is ... Simmons said exactly that in his lawsuit -- that the Enquirer was gambling he wouldn't sue because it would make it seem like he thinks there's something wrong with people who transition.
The Enquirer adds, "We stand by our reporting about Mr. Simmons, and intend to vigorously defend this lawsuit and win public vindication of our reports."
Richard Simmons Sues the National Enquirer Over False Sex Change Story (UPDATE) | TMZ.com