GM Hikaru’s Response to Backlash Over Kick Gambling Streams

GM Hikaru’s Response to Backlash Over Kick Gambling Streams

Despite facing criticism and accusations of promoting gambling to young viewers, professional chess player and Kick streamer GM Hikaru Nakamura remains unfazed.

Despite dedicating a significant amount of time to his streaming content, GM Hikaru still managed to place third at the 2024 Candidates Tournament in April, solidifying his position as one of the top chess players in the world.

After the tournament, Hikaru finally had his debut gaming stream on Kick, even though he had joined the Stake-owned platform in 2023 and departed from Twitch.

The gambling stream sparked immediate backlash, as members of the chess community accused Hikaru of using his influence in the chess world to promote gambling to younger audiences.

“A user on X blasted the use of crypto for gambling, stating that its lack of regulation makes it easier to target underage audiences. The user expressed disgust at the practice and its apparent targeting of children.”

“This is utterly shameful. Another user criticized Hikaru for promoting gambling, expressing concern for viewers who may get drawn into betting and ultimately bear the cost of his sponsorship. This must be stopped.”

Despite facing criticism, Hikaru remains steadfast in his decision to continue his gambling broadcasts, stating that they are meant for mature audiences.

After announcing his plans for the week’s streaming schedule, the GM clarified that he would be starting off on April 29 with an “18+ ONLY casino stream.”

“In case you’re not enjoying it, feel free to skip it. Otherwise, as an adult if you have a liking for gamba, do come and visit me in the chess world!”he exclaimed.

In 2022, Twitch made a controversial decision to ban gambling sites, including Stake, on their streaming platform. As a result, Kick emerged as a competitor to Amazon’s streaming platform.

Hikaru recently announced his involvement in sponsored gambling streams, which follows his previous statement that becoming world chess champion would pale in comparison to his achievements in content creation, made only a few weeks ago.

He also mentioned that being a content creator enhances his enjoyment of chess, playfully stating that participating in tournaments feels like “playing with house money”due to the success of his streams.

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