There are two facts of life that remain constant: Technology continues to evolve, and people love to fight. That is why, during the “Battle of the Platforms,” a myriad of big-name social media influencers, representing their respective social media platforms of YouTube and Tik-Tok, duked it out in the ring to both settle their beefs and decide which platform’s creators reign supreme.
Headlining the ticket was the fight between two social media icons — Tik-Tok superstar and self-proclaimed “bad boy,” Bryce Hall, and YouTube vlog powerhouse and family man, Austin McBroom. The two, having possessed a public quarrel for a good amount of time, decided things should be quelled in the most exciting and entertaining method, a good ole’ amateur boxing match. Add even more social media stars and rivalries to the mix, and you have a great night of in-person social media entertainment.
The social media star-studded series of boxing bouts took place at the distinguished Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens. Adding to the spectacle were condensed performances by A-list hip-hop artists such as Trippie Redd, Lil’ Baby, and DJ Khaled interspersed between each heated brawl. Also present was prolific commentary by social media creators and provocateurs FouseyTUBE and Keemstar.
Whether you use it or not, there is no denying that the Tik-Tok platform has made serious waves in the space of entertainment. Its trend-based and short-form content, which adapts to each user’s specific interests and preferences, creates an addicting and mindlessly entertaining app that can keep anyone, especially teens, scrolling for hours at a time.
YouTube’s impact on the entertainment industry needs no introduction. The internet video service, along with Netflix, put basically all of cable TV on its knees, persuading and swiping its audience with more personable content that viewers could consume without having to purchase a bothersome cable package.
At the cornerstone of both YouTube and Tik-Tok are the creators. Not only do they produce the content for the platforms, but they also give them a face and a soul. The most notable creators possess a combination of talent, charm, and glamour, which turns them into luminary icons who abide in the hearts and minds of their devoted fans. Just like teen pop idols of the past, such as Justin Timberlake, Britney Spears, and Justin Bieber, their fans will fight their battles, defend them to the end, and follow each venture they partake in.
Aware of the extraordinary gravity that these social media stars possess, event organizers see social media influencer-based events as a lucrative avenue to pursue. Based on the impressive spectacle and success of this recent event, whether it be boxing or other sensational exhibitions, I predict the public will definitely be seeing more influencer-studded events in the future.
Miami could possibly serve as the new hot spot for these influencer events. In addition to the work put in by LiveXLive, Battle of the Platforms’ central organizer, Hard Rock itself was a key force in producing and carrying out the event. With Miami’s known and ever-evolving image as a neon-lit destination for glitz, glamour, action, and fame, perhaps the Battle of the Platforms is the catalyst for South Florida’s path to emerging as the new Las Vegas.
