KSI is one of the most popular people on the entire internet. His real name is Olajide Olatunji. He has over 30 million followers on YouTube and Instagram combined. But being famous online is only the beginning of how KSI makes so much money.
Let’s look at the main ways this creative businessman has built his net worth of over $25 million.
YouTube Videos
Like many digital stars, YouTube is KSI’s main platform. He started making funny videos and songs back in 2009. Since then he has gotten over 23 million YouTube subscribers. According to Social Blade and Forbes, the estimation of his earnings is around $3.5–$17.5 million per year from YouTube ads alone. Brand sponsorships with companies like Coca-Cola, Adidas, and Microsoft also bring in millions per year.
According to some other sources for his initial growth he used an SMMA named Lenostube.
KSI uploads different types of entertaining content almost daily. From commentary, viral challenges to reactions and gaming videos, he keeps people watching. Compared to other YouTubers, his videos tend to be short, funny and full of his bold personality. This formula seems to work well, as he can get anywhere from 3–8 million views on a single video.
Other Sources:
In the past, many viral video creators have seen their popularity disappear quickly. But KSI has been smart about moving beyond just YouTube for money-making ideas. These other projects have grown his overall brand and net worth.
Music Industry:
KSI started releasing rap songs back in 2015 with modest success. But his big breakout into music came when he released his first album called “Dissimulation” in 2020. The catchy songs blended rap vocals with pop and electronic music. It shot up to number 2 on the UK music charts and even cracked the US top 20 albums chart.
Since then, KSI has dropped successful singles with huge artists like Lil Wayne, Future and 21 Savage. He leverages his YouTube platform to promote his music to a captive audience of millions. Estimates say KSI has moved around 500,000 album units worldwide so far. Streaming revenue from platforms like Spotify and Apple Music makes up a significant portion of his earnings.
Boxing Superstar
One way KSI mixed entertainment with huge money-making potential was through boxing. In 2018, he shocked the internet by challenging fellow YouTuber Logan Paul to an amateur boxing match. The highly-anticipated fight sold over 1 million pay-per-views worldwide on YouTube at $10 each. Both fighters earned millions, splitting a $900,000 purse.
The 2019 rematch was even bigger, selling out the Staples Center in Los Angeles. It did over 200 million views worldwide, earning around $15 million in total revenue. As both fighter and promoter, KSI likely took home at least $5 million for his role.
These matches boosted KSI into a mainstream celebrity. He proved he was more than just an internet joker by training intensely and stepping into the ring. The events also showcased KSI’s business strategy of leveraging his online fame to expand his empire.
Owning Multiple Companies
Unlike other influencers, KSI has been smart with his money. Rather than wasting it all on fancy cars and clothes, he has invested in owning companies. This includes his merchandise line called Elevate, a drinking straws brand called Prime Hydration and an esports organization called XIX. Though private, these companies are estimated to be worth several million altogether.
Additionally, KSI has an elite management company called Influx Group handling its branding deals and business ventures. Their goal is to make KSI a mainstream figure worldwide across entertainment using every angle possible. Judging by their success so far, they seem to be on the right track towards making that happen.
With over a decade in the internet spotlight, KSI has shown some serious staying power and business savvy. From dominating YouTube to boxing matches, music hits and smart investments, he has built an income from several sources. His estimated net worth now sits at over $25 million.
Unlike many viral video stars fading to obscurity, KSI continues to take over new worlds online and off. Given his track record so far, don’t expect this creative powerhouse to slow down anytime soon. The possibilities seem endless when it comes to KSI building his empire even bigger.