Dr Disrespect’s Stance on Kick’s Offer
Kick’s staff recently provided an update on whether Dr Disrespect will join the platform with its upcoming 2.0 version launch. As one of the biggest free agents in the streaming world, Dr Disrespect, standing at 6 feet 8 inches, has dominated YouTube ever since his mysterious Twitch ban in 2020. The ban cost him numerous opportunities, including a Nike sponsorship.
Kick has been in talks with Dr Disrespect, but nothing concrete has materialized. As Kick gears up for its 2.0 launch, many speculated about a major new signing. However, according to Kick’s Head of Strategic Partnerships, Andrew Santamaria, Dr Disrespect joining the platform will “probably not” happen.
“He tweeted at us after we signed xQc that he wanted $50M, and yeah…” Santamaria said during a Kick stream in May. “He’s an amazing streamer, but we need to ground things in reality.”
The $50 Million Price Tag
When Kick launched as a direct competitor to Twitch, it signed big names like Amouranth and xQc. Dr Disrespect, keen to negotiate, named his price at $50 million, half of xQc’s non-exclusive deal value. Santamaria’s comments reflect what Kick’s Head of Product, Paulie Chianese, mentioned over a year ago, highlighting that Dr Disrespect was serious about the $50 million figure.
“I love the Doc. I’ve watched him for years. I think he’s one of the most entertaining streamers in the business. But fifty million is fifty million,” Chianese explained, dismissing any possibilities.
Future Signings on Kick
While Dr Disrespect and his Champion’s Club may not be part of Kick’s 2.0 evolution, Santamaria mentioned that the platform is still “talking with everyone,” indicating more signings could be on the horizon.
“Right now, we have the Spanish side coming in hot,” he said. “We keep them coming. We spent a lot of time on the English side, we’re spending a lot of time on the Spanish side, and then we get strategic on when we go next.”
Dr Disrespect’s Rejection of Kick’s Offer
Dr Disrespect recently turned down a generous offer from Kick. The platform proposed $10 million per year without any contractual gambling requirements. Despite the offer and a more favorable revenue split, Dr Disrespect stated it’s “just not enough.”
Staying with YouTube
During a recent stream, Dr Disrespect emphasized his loyalty to YouTube. “The community’s too strong here,” he said, pointing to his strong viewership and thriving community as reasons for staying. He also mentioned his future billion-dollar gaming studio and the upcoming third batch of his Black Steel Bourbon as factors in his decision.
Dr Disrespect’s reluctance to join Kick underscores his contentment with his current platform and his high valuation of his brand and community.
Even $10 Million Couldn’t Bring Dr Disrespect to Kick
Despite Kick’s attempt to lure Dr Disrespect with a $10 million offer, the charismatic and controversial content creator remained steadfast. Since being banned on Twitch in 2020, Dr Disrespect has made YouTube his home. The $10 million offer, which included a clause allowing him to avoid gambling content, was not enough to sway him.
The Community is Too Strong
Kick.com has had a tumultuous journey since its 2022 launch, often embroiled in scandals. Despite these issues, it has attracted many high-profile content creators. However, Dr Disrespect’s recent revelation highlights his strong attachment to his YouTube community.
“It’s just not enough. The community (on YouTube) is too strong here. We’re established. The numbers are just outrageous. We’re looking good, we’re feeling good. I’m in cruise control driving multiple Lamborghinis. I’m in no rush,” he stated in character.
Dr Disrespect’s consistent success on YouTube, combined with his ongoing projects and brand strength, makes it unlikely he will move to Kick without meeting his substantial financial demands.
