YouTube sensation KSI returns to the boxing ring for the first time since his victory over Logan Paul two years ago, as he faces two opponents, one being rapper, Swarmz and the other is professional boxer, Luis Alcaraz Pineda. This wasn't always the plan though, as we look at the twists and turns in the build-up to this special event.
KSI confirmed in the early stages of this year that his return to boxing would take place on August 27th. As months went by, an announcement came regarding the return. KSI was set to face bitter YouTube rival, Alex Wassabi. Wassabi had animosity with KSI which was intensified by Wassabi defeating KSI's brother, Deji in the boxing ring.
Everything was set, KSI vs Wassabi, August 27th, O2 Arena on DAZN PPV. However, Wassabi would pick up an injury, ruling out of the bout. KSI was looking for an opponent and YouTuber turned boxer Jake Paul, whose fight with Hasim Rahman Jr. had just fallen through, had things to say but did not agree to the fight. Instead, it would be confirmed that rapper Swarmz would be the replacement.
Reports did emerge that Swarmz had no boxing experience and was not in training for a boxing bout but would begin. Some criticism was shone on the bout due to Swarmz' lack of experience, so KSI thought on his feet and announced a groundbreaking agreement, as he would now have two bouts in the same night, with professional boxer Ivan Nikolov confirmed as the opponent.
However, another twist would be added into the promotion. Fans would research Nikolov to assess the task KSI would be dealing with in the ring but photos surfaced of Nikolov at a weigh in with tattoos that related to white supremacist groups.
KSI's matchmaker's were quick to react and would draft in Luis Alcaraz Pineda in to be the opponent for the YouTuber. Pineda has had seven professional fights and has picked up a victory in two of those bouts.
KSI's two fights in one night happen this Saturday, as he enters the squared circle twice at the O2 Arena in London and can be watched live on DAZN PPV.