IShowSpeed meets BTS at FIFA World Cup final, celebrates with hugs and a backflip

A viral moment unfolded during the FIFA World Cup final as American streamer IShowSpeed, whose real name is Darren Jason Watkins Jr, encountered all seven members of the globally renowned K-pop group BTS backstage at MetLife Stadium in New York. The surprise meeting took place in a hallway outside the stadium’s suites, moments before Spain secured a dramatic 1-0 victory over Argentina to claim the World Cup title. The encounter occurred during extra time of the final, when the score remained tied at 0-0. While streaming the match live on YouTube, IShowSpeed was seated in a stadium suite when someone off-camera informed him that BTS was nearby. Without delay, he left his seat and made his way to the hallway, where he spotted RM and J-hope. Overcome with excitement, he exclaimed, “Oh my God! BTS! Can I get a picture?” J-hope recognized him immediately and greeted him warmly, leading to an enthusiastic hug. Following this initial exchange, IShowSpeed proceeded to greet each of the remaining BTS members, Jin, Suga, Jimin, V, and Jungkook, with individual hugs and handshakes. During the interaction, he performed one of his signature backflips, prompting laughter and applause from the group. Jungkook was particularly expressive, leaping with joy upon hugging Speed. Afterward, IShowSpeed requested a group photograph, which all seven members obliged with enthusiasm. “I’m a big fan, bro,” Speed remarked, expressing his admiration for the group. In response, RM acknowledged his fandom, saying, “I love watching your videos, bro.” The brief but memorable exchange concluded with both parties parting ways, leaving Speed visibly emotional as he returned to his seat in the stands to witness Spain’s historic win. Later, Speed documented the encounter in an Instagram reel, which quickly gained traction online. BTS members RM and J-hope responded with supportive emojis, including fire and raised-hand symbols, while V added a comment expressing how thrilled they were to meet him. Throughout the World Cup, IShowSpeed had been traveling across North America, livestreaming matches and engaging with fans. His involvement extended beyond spectatorship, he also performed his track World Cup (Champions) at the tournament’s closing ceremony, adding another layer to his presence at the event. Meanwhile, BTS had previously captivated audiences with their performance of Dynamite during the World Cup halftime show. The performance was part of a broader production involving notable figures such as Coldplay frontman Chris Martin, who served as the producer. Other acts included performances by Shakira, Madonna, and Justin Bieber, underscoring the high-profile nature of the event. Prior to the World Cup, BTS had completed the European leg of their Arirang world tour. Their last shows in Europe took place in Paris, France, on July 17 and 18, where they delivered two sold-out concerts at the country’s national stadium. These performances attracted nearly 92,000 fans, with French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife, Brigitte Macron, in attendance. The couple was seen singing and dancing alongside the crowd, highlighting the group’s widespread appeal. Looking ahead, BTS plans to continue their global tour, heading to North America, Canada, and South America before returning to Asia in November. As part of their schedule, the group has four planned concerts in Singapore, set for December 17, 19, 20, and 22. This continued international engagement underscores their status as one of the most influential musical acts in the world today. IShowSpeed’s encounter with BTS has since become a topic of discussion among fans, blending elements of sports, music, and digital culture into a singular, unforgettable moment.