IShowSpeed backs out from backflip challenge after 24 hours, here’s what he said

The challenge, which began on October 7, 2024, aimed to surpass Austrian athlete Nico Scheicher’s current record of 1,008 backflips in a single day.

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Popular YouTuber and streamer Darren “IShowSpeed” Jason Watkins Jr. has called off his ambitious attempt to break the world record for most backflips in 24 hours after an unexpected physical setback. The challenge, which began on October 7, 2024, aimed to surpass Austrian athlete Nico Scheicher’s current record of 1,008 backflips in a single day.

However, just hours before the challenge was set to end, IShowSpeed, 19, announced to his viewers that he was physically unable to continue. “I can’t move anymore,” the Ohio native revealed during a live stream on October 9, 2024, adding, “my legs are dead.” Despite his initial enthusiasm and determination, IShowSpeed was forced to stop after completing 660 backflips, far short of the target.

Throughout the stream, IShowSpeed maintained his characteristic upbeat spirit, but the physical toll of the challenge became evident as time passed. At one point, he admitted, “even if I did, the max that I can do is maybe 40 more.” Despite falling short, IShowSpeed assured his fans that this was only a temporary setback. He promised to return within “a month or two” to attempt the record again, saying, “I’m not giving up. I’ll be back.”

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The YouTuber’s fans rallied around him, with many praising his determination and persistence. Even controversial internet figure Andrew Tate offered words of encouragement, commending IShowSpeed for his dedication to breaking the record.