During Champions 2023, Tarik has emerged as Valorant's most-watched streamer, even outperforming the main channel. In his recent stream, he shared a provocative opinion regarding the significance of trash talk and its potential to enhance the scene.
Champions have brought immense excitement, with community casters drawing more interest than the official ones. Tarik's viewership has surged, surpassing the official stream figures consistently throughout the event.
Tarik's Standpoint: Valorant's Lack of Trash Talk
This year's major events have not been devoid of trash-talking drama, indicating players' growing willingness to challenge rival teams or players. Notably, EG's IGL Boostio and even Chinese teams EDG & Bilibili Gaming became part of the latest controversy.
Boosting team morale while engaging in playful taunts against opponents is not an unfamiliar tactic; this approach has long been prevalent in sports. "Boostio" openly expressed his thoughts about the Chinese region, while KangKang, the notorious figure, also joined the verbal sparring.
My honor is on the line today, @FPX_Esports will be defeated.#VALORANTChampions pic.twitter.com/9c0y7jpyLc
— EG Boostio (@Boostio) August 7, 2023
Tarik's View on the Drama
Currently, Tarik is Valorant's most-watched streamer by a substantial margin. He has been hosting watch parties for Champions since Day 1 and didn't hesitate to contribute his viewpoint to the ongoing situation. While some perceive such dramatic exchanges and callouts as immature, Tarik holds a different perspective.
"I believe players should be encouraged to engage in banter. We should reward them for talking trash, okay? It should be the opposite of the current scenario. If folks are engaging in trash talk, we should acknowledge and incentivize them," - Tarik
Many in his chat and the community at large seem to align with his stance, and a bit of drama and excitement can add flavor to the scene. UFC's approach to hyping events and encouraging players to exchange taunts serves as a good example of effective implementation.
Hold up, kangkang plays today?
— tarik (@tarik) August 9, 2023
Potential Impact of Trash Talk on Riot's Plans
Riot places significant importance on maintaining strong partnerships and favorable sponsor relationships, a commitment they intend to uphold. They have made it clear that any behavior deemed unlawful or disrespectful can lead to permanent exclusion from the scene.
Time to put the money where the mouth is @Boostio #VALORANTChampions pic.twitter.com/AqJhTEJOWr
— VALORANT Champions Tour (@ValorantEsports) August 8, 2023
Riot's priority remains safeguarding their partnerships with current event sponsors, as these alliances are vital for the smooth operation of events. Instances of profanity, teabagging, and other perceived "unethical" actions have been witnessed, and the momentum behind such actions doesn't seem likely to wane.
For more on Champions content:
- Valorant: Team Liquid & FPX Eliminated First From Champions 2023
- Valorant: Who Is Behind Codename "Giraffe" ?