NYPD allegedly refused to provide security for a Nike event if Twitch star Kai Cenat attended, causing him to miss the opportunity.
Twitch sensation Kai Cenat recently revealed that he missed out on a high-profile Nike basketball event due to intervention from the New York Police Department (NYPD). The popular streamer and internet personality claimed during an August 13 broadcast that the NYPD refused to offer security for the event if he was in attendance.
In February, Cenat announced his partnership with Nike, marking a significant milestone in his career. However, things have not been entirely smooth since signing the deal, as evidenced by this latest development. During the broadcast, Kai shared with his friends and viewers the frustrating situation that led to his absence from the Nike event.
According to Kai, he was supposed to introduce the teams competing at the basketball tournament, a major opportunity that he had been looking forward to. However, he alleged that the NYPD informed Nike that they would not be providing any surveillance or protection if Kai made an appearance at the event. This ultimatum from the police ultimately led to him being unable to attend.
“We are not protecting the event and [you are going to] have to be on your own,” Kai recounted, expressing visible frustration.
“The police didn’t want to do the job that they were supposed to do,” he added, blaming the NYPD for the missed opportunity.
This incident has drawn attention on social media, with fans and followers sharing mixed reactions. Some criticized the NYPD for their stance, while others supported the decision, citing Kai’s previous involvement in a controversial event. In August 2023, Cenat was charged with inciting a riot after a chaotic giveaway in New York City led to massive crowds and disorder. This history, according to some, might have influenced the NYPD’s decision to withdraw from the Nike event if Kai was present.
One viewer commented on X, saying, “This is a reasonable statement. You would literally need the whole force to control the fandom that would come out to see Kai, that would take a lot of manpower.” Another added, “If I was the NYPD I wouldn’t protect that sh** either. Last time he caused a f***ing riot in New York.”
Despite the setback, Kai maintained his sense of humor, joking about hosting another giveaway. However, he remains visibly disappointed about missing out on what could have been a significant moment in his partnership with Nike.
As the situation unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the complexities that can arise when internet fame intersects with real-world events. The NYPD’s decision, whether viewed as a precaution or an overreach, highlights the challenges that come with managing large crowds, especially when a figure as popular as Kai Cenat is involved.
