How is KSI like?
Olajide Olayinka Williams Olatunji, popularly known as KSI, was born on June 19, 1993, in London, England. His parents, Olayinka Atinuke from Ibadan, Nigeria and Olayinka Atinuke from Islington, London, are of Yoruba descent. Raised in Watford, Hertfordshire, KSI attended Redford School and later Berkhamsted School. It was at Berkhamsted that he met Simon Minter, a future collaborator and fellow Sidemen member. Growing up, KSI had always been passionate about gaming and entertainment, which led him to start his YouTube career.
YouTube Career and Rise to Fame
KSI began his YouTube journey in 2009 by creating content focused on gaming, most notably commentary videos of the FIFA video game series. His energetic and humorous personality attracted a growing audience, and he gradually diversified his content to include vlogs, comedy skits, and collaborative challenges. Over time, KSI became one of the most influential YouTubers in the U.K., known for his versatility and creativity.
He is a co-founding member of Sidemen, a popular British YouTube group formed in 2013. Sidemen produce a variety of content, from gaming videos to challenges, and are known for their strong fan base and successful merchandise line. KSI also explored other media platforms, including a collaboration with Comedy Central UK and participating in web series and live streaming for gaming and esports.
Music career
KSI began trying his hand at music in 2011, initially as a hobby. He eventually took his music career more seriously, and in 2020, he released his debut studio album Dissimulation.
The album was commercially successful, debuting at number 2 on the UK Albums Chart. His second studio album, *All Over the Place* (2021), debuted at number 1 in the UK. His musical style incorporates British hip hop, grime, trap, pop, and garage. KSI has worked with several high-profile artists such as Anne-Marie, Yungblud, Polo G, and Lil Wayne and has achieved several top 40 singles in the UK with hits such as “Holiday” and “Don’t Play”.
Boxing career
Apart from YouTube and music, KSI is a professional boxer. He entered the world of boxing in 2018, initially through white-collar matches, where he took on fellow YouTuber Joe Weller. This was followed by two highly publicized bouts against American YouTuber Logan Paul. The second match, which took place in 2019, was a professional contest, and KSI won via split decision. He continued his boxing career, taking on several opponents including rapper Swarmz, professional boxer Luis Alcaraz Pineda, and most recently Tommy Fury, whom he fought in October 2023, losing by unanimous decision.
KSI is also the CEO of Misfits Boxing, a boxing promotion company, further solidifying his presence in the sport.
Entrepreneurship and business ventures
KSI has proven himself as a successful entrepreneur. He co-owns several businesses including Prime Hydration, XIX Vodka, Sidemen Clothing, restaurant chain Sides, and snack brand lunchly. His business acumen and ventures outside of YouTube have contributed significantly to his estimated net worth of $24 million as of 2023. KSI has also invested in cryptocurrencies and real estate, owning more than ten properties worth more than £10 million.
Personal life
KSI is known for his transparency with his fans about his personal life. He is a fan of Arsenal F.C. KSI is a supporter of the and identifies as agnostic. In the past, he has faced criticism for using offensive language, but he has taken steps to educate himself and has publicly apologized for his mistakes. He has a close relationship with his younger brother, Deji Olatunji, who is also a YouTuber and boxer. Despite occasional public disagreements, the two brothers maintain a bond and collaborate on various projects.
Achievements and Legacy
KSI is one of the most successful content creators in the world, with over 41 million subscribers and over 10 billion views on his YouTube channel. He was included in the Forbes 30 Under 30 list for Europe in 2021 and was ranked number two in Forbes Top Creators of 2023. His influence spans multiple industries, including music, boxing, and business, making him a multi-talented entertainer and entrepreneur.
KSI’s journey from a young YouTuber to a global star shows his incredible versatility, determination and ability to adapt to different forms of media.
