KSI, real name Olajide Olayinka Williams "JJ" Olatunji, is one of the biggest YouTube stars in the world. Since launching his channel in 2009, he has amassed over 30 million subscribers with his unique brand of gaming videos, vlogs, comedy skits, and music. However, in recent years, KSI has expanded his career into professional boxing, competing in some of the most viewed internet boxing matches of all time.
From Viral Videos to Viral Knockouts
KSI first ventured into boxing in 2018, when he took on fellow YouTuber Joe Weller in an amateur bout. After months of trash talking and hype building online, the fight generated huge interest, with over 20 million views across multiple platforms. KSI won by third-round TKO, proving he was more than just an internet funnyman.
This online boxing experiment reached new heights when KSI agreed to fight Logan Paul, another wildly popular YouTuber turned boxer. Their first fight in August 2018 ended in a controversial split draw, despite many believing KSI deserved the nod. The rematch in November 2019 marked KSI‘s professional debut, which he won by split decision in a tightly contested bout.
According to reports, KSI vs Logan Paul 2 generated up to $11 million in live gate revenue and over 200,000 pay-per-view buys on DAZN, showcasing KSI‘s commercial draw. As of 2023, the two fights reportedly produced up to $150 million in total pay-per-view revenue – cementing it as one of the largest boxing events headlined by YouTubers.
Dominant Start to His Professional Career
After two clashes with Logan Paul, KSI took an almost 3-year hiatus from boxing to focus on his music career. He returned triumphantly in August 2022, facing two opponents on the same night.
KSI first defeated rapper Swarmz, a late replacement after Alex Wassabi pulled out, with a second round TKO. He followed this up by stopping professional boxer Luis Alcaraz Pineda in three rounds later that evening.
While both wins came against overmatched opponents, it was an impressive return for KSI. At just 24 years old, he boasts an undefeated 3-0 professional record with his authoritative stopping power on full display.
According to official statistics:
- KSI has a total fight record of 4 wins, 0 losses and 1 draw (4-0-1).
- His professional boxing record stands at 3-0-0 with all wins coming by TKO.
Physical Attributes: Height, Weight and Style
One major asset for KSI in boxing is his physical makeup. At 6‘0" with a 75" reach, he owns a significant size and range advantage over most opponents. KSI weighed in at 183 lbs for the Swarmz bout – giving him the strength to generate fight-ending power.
KSI employs an aggressive, high-pressure style, staying in his opponent‘s face and unleashing heavy combinations. His athleticism and speed also allow him to avoid shots and set up his vicious hooks.
While still a work in progress, KSI has exhibited marked improvements in technique, defense, and stamina during his short career – traits that will serve him well moving forward.
The Future: Unfinished Business and New Challenges
After re-establishing himself as a force in boxing, many fans are speculating who KSI will fight next. A grudge match with Jake Paul, younger brother of Logan, seems inevitable given their bitter feud. Jake is 5-0 as a pro and would pose a stiff test.
There is also unfinished business with Logan Paul, who remains the only fighter KSI hasn‘t defeated. Logan returning to boxing and completing their trilogy is a possibility that would interest both men.
As KSI‘s profile continues growing, potential crossover bouts with celebrities and athletes from other sports also loom as options. Regardless, with his elite-level social media presence and perfect record, we can expect KSI to be involved in some of boxing‘s biggest events for the foreseeable future.
