American livestreamer IShowSpeed met the K-pop group BTS backstage at the 2026 [1] FIFA World Cup Final in New Jersey.
The encounter merges two of the world's most influential digital fanbases during the most-watched sporting event on the planet. By bringing together a global music phenomenon and a top-tier internet personality, the moment highlights the intersection of traditional sports broadcasting and modern creator culture.
Darren Watkins Jr., known online as IShowSpeed, was invited backstage after reacting to the group's halftime performance. The meeting took place at MetLife Stadium [1], where the final match between Spain and Argentina [1] was held.
Witnesses and footage of the interaction showed Watkins sharing hugs with the band members. In a display of his characteristic high energy, the livestreamer performed a backflip to celebrate the meeting. The group concluded the interaction by posing for a group photo together.
Watkins has previously expressed admiration for the South Korean group. His reaction before the meeting was captured on video, showing him in a state of high excitement before being introduced to the stars.
“The American livestreamer celebrated with the K-pop group following their halftime performance.”
This interaction underscores the evolving nature of halftime entertainment at global sporting events. By integrating a viral creator like IShowSpeed with a global act like BTS, FIFA is tapping into a younger, digitally native demographic that consumes sports and music through the lens of social media influencers rather than traditional media outlets.
