Usually, IShowSpeed is known for building a following by making videos that go viral on YouTube or other streaming platforms. He’s also gotten into making music.
Meanwhile, Giannis Antetokounmpo is best known for being a two-time NBA MVP and former champion. Now, the new Miami Heat superstar is providing insight as an amateur music critic too.
IShowSpeed’s World Cup Song Draws Praise From Giannis Antetokounmpo
As noted, IShowSpeed has dabbled in the music industry, and he recently dropped a rap single titled “Champions.” In addition to serving as an official ambassador for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, he was asked to perform his song during the closing ceremony ahead of Spain’s 1-0 title victory over Argentina.
🎤 @ishowspeedsui performs his song “Champions” during the 2026 FIFA World Cup Closing Ceremony pic.twitter.com/cmNqWIUDLE
— FOX Sports (@FOXSports) July 19, 2026
When he was done on stage, IShowSpeed found a way to connect with Antetokounmpo. Once the two met, the 21-year-old wanted to know what Antetokounmpo thought of his live rap performance. Antetokounmpo was overwhelmingly positive in his feedback.
“Hey! You did it out there,” Antetokounmpo said. “Oh, my gosh. You might be one of the most talented people I’ve ever seen, bro. You do everything. … You killed it. Good job.”
Giannis Antetokounmpo with IShowSpeed at the FIFA World Cup final pic.twitter.com/R7ZQf9OezO
— 𝙃𝙀𝘼𝙏 𝙉𝘼𝙏𝙄𝙊𝙉 (@HeatvsHaters) July 19, 2026
Antetokounmpo was clearly blown away by IShowSpeed’s work at the FIFA World Cup. It’s awesome to see a fellow performer like Antetokounmpo build up one of his peers like this. That said, Antetokounmpo has never been known to be a “hater,” as the kids call it.
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IShowSpeed appeared very appreciative of the instant feedback he received from the NBA superstar, who’s also accustomed to performing in front of thousands of fans. Still, a rap performance of an original song is a different challenge than anything Antetokounmpo has experienced.
As for the World Cup Final, it went into extra time, where Spain forward Ferran Torres scored a goal in the 106th minute of action. Argentina, complete with Lionel Messi, had a few closing minutes to respond, but ultimately came up short as Spain seized a 1-0 victory.
The last time Spain won the FIFA World Cup was in 2010, and this likely was the last time we’ll see Messi competing in World Cup action. The 39-year-old probably won’t still be competing in 2030, when the World Cup heads to Spain, Portugal, and Morocco.
Meanwhile, IShowSpeed’s performance should earn him more opportunities to share his music around the globe. Who knows? He might even be invited back in four years.
