KSI (born June 19, 1993) is one of the most popular and recognizable internet personalities in the world. With over 30 million subscribers across his YouTube channels, chart-topping songs, and high-profile boxing matches, he has achieved tremendous crossover success across entertainment and sports. But who is the man behind the KSI persona? Let‘s take an in-depth look at KSI‘s background, vital statistics, multifaceted career, and real name.
The Origins of a Crossover Superstar
KSI was born Olajide Olayinka Williams "JJ" Olatunji in London, England to Nigerian immigrant parents. He grew up in Watford with his parents and three siblings, developing his lively, humorous personality from a young age.
As a teenager, JJ was an avid gamer and soccer fanatic. He studied at Berkhamsted School before dropping out at 17 to pursue a full-time career as a YouTuber. His parents were initially hesitant about his unorthodox path but eventually came around to support his passions.
KSI By the Numbers
Here are the key stats and figures you need to know about the YouTube phenom:
| Full Name | Olajide Olayinka Williams "JJ" Olatunji |
| Age | 29 years old (Born June 19, 1993) |
| Height | 180 cm (5‘11") |
| Weight | 80 kg (178 lbs) |
| Nationality | British |
| YouTube Subscribers | Over 30 million across channels |
| YouTube Videos | Over 3,500 uploads total |
Standing at 5‘11" with an athletic build, KSI possesses ideal physical traits for his boxing career. But his social media stats are even more impressive, with an enormous fanbase across YouTube and other platforms.
The Multifaceted Creator: Gaming, Music & Boxing
KSI began his YouTube career in 2008, uploading videos of himself gaming and commentating over popular games like FIFA and Call of Duty. His boisterous personality and sharp British wit quickly attracted millions of dedicated subscribers.
In 2013, KSI co-founded the Sidemen – a group of 7 British YouTubers who collaborated on challenge videos, pranks and vlogs. The Sidemen channel now has over 19 million subscribers and 10+ billion views.
As YouTube evolved, KSI adapted his content format to reacting to viral memes, music videos and Reddit posts. He displayed his trademark off-the-cuff humor, expressiveness and hot takes.
KSI also pursued music, releasing several comedy rap songs and diss tracks that showcased his natural flow. "Lamborghini," "Little Boy" and "Holiday" became hit songs, garnering millions of streams.
But perhaps KSI‘s most surprising endeavor has been competitive boxing. His rivalry with Logan Paul led to two highly-publicized boxing matches – an amateur draw in 2018 followed by a professional bout in 2019 that KSI won by split decision. Since then, he‘s continued boxing in exhibition matches, displaying ever-improving skills.
Across gaming, music and boxing, KSI has shown he is far more than just a YouTuber – he is a multifaceted crossover superstar.
The Man Behind the Persona
Despite his tremendous fame, KSI remains grounded in his London upbringing. Around friends and family, he goes by his real name – JJ Olatunji – the same goofy, outspoken kid from Watford.
KSI takes great pride in his Nigerian heritage and gives back to the UK community. He has mentored up-and-coming YouTubers at the Sidemen house and funded construction of a brand new football pitch in London.
While he loves hamming it up as an entertainer, KSI is also an incredibly savvy businessman. He has amassed an estimated net worth of $25 million through his diversified revenue streams and investments. However, he continues to push himself creatively and athletically.
At just 29 years old, KSI has already built an empire for himself thanks to his bold personality and relentless drive. But clearly, this crossover superstar is only getting started on bigger plans ahead in music, boxing and beyond.
