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Source: Anna Barclay / Getty / Elon Musk / X
Elon Musk’s time as owner of X, formerly Twitter, is reportedly over, but before you celebrate, it sounds like his slimy tentacles will still be all over the platform.
Spotted on the New York Times, Elon Musk claims he sold X to xAI, the artificial intelligence startup the Tesla chief founded in 2023. Yes, if you’re wondering if there are potential conflicts of interest, you’re not far off in your thinking.
According to the website, it’s an all-stock deal, with xAI valued at $80 billion and the mess that is X worth $30 billion. This is $14 billion cheaper than when Phony Stark reluctantly acquired the platform, then called Twitter, for $44 billion in 2022.
“XAI and X’s futures are intertwined. Today, we officially take the step to combine the data, models, compute, distribution and talent,” Musk wrote in his post on X. “The combined company will deliver smarter, more meaningful experiences to billions of people while staying true to our core mission of seeking truth and advancing knowledge.”
Both companies share resources. xAI’s intelligence models are trained based on the data it gathers from posts from X users. The companies also share engineers and the chatbot Grok.
Social Media Thinks Elon Musk Is Money Laundering
Social media has been very skeptical of this proposed deal. “He sold Twitter/X to himself. This is clearly money laundering in 4K,” one user wrote on X.
Another post read, “how do you sell your own company to your own company.”
“We can tell he’s bored because how do you sell your shit to yourself??” said another post.
Yeah, this deal is sketchy. We shall see how it continues to play out. Until then, you can see more reactions in the gallery below.
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Source: Carol Lee Rose / Getty / Marvin Sapp
One of Marvin Sapp’s sermons has set social media ablaze and has begun a dialogue about the Black church.
A video of Marvin Sapp’s “holy hustling” for Jesus has gone viral on X, formerly Twitter. In the clip, which Sapp admits is over a year old, the popular pastor asks his congregation to help him reach a goal of $40,000.
In one part of the clip, Sapp asks the ushers to close the door to keep the congregation from leaving.
“We all gon’ leave together,” Sapp said. “Y’all ain’t going no place but to the restaurant.”
Sapp further explained that if the 1,000 people in the pews and the 1,000 people watching online gave $20, which he called a “small seed,” it would add up to $40,000.
“I’m challenging each of you all down here to give a $20 seed,” Sapp told his flock.
He jokingly added that $20 would cover a movie date, popcorn, and drink when his wife, MaLinda P. Sapp, was still alive.
Sapp then asked his clergy members to give $100 while the congregation dug in their wallets and purses looking for a $20. “It costs to sit up here,” Sapp said.
While the mass donations continued, Sapp hushed the crowd and said, “Giving is worship.”
“This ain’t a time to talk,” Sapp said as he continued encouraging worshippers in the building and viewers online to keep the donations coming, describing them as “an easy miracle.”
Marvin Sapp Issues A Statement On The Clip
Word about Sapp’s video going viral definitely reached the pastor, who posted a lengthy statement on Facebook. He explained that the clip was a year old, added that he “gave much more,” and pointed out that the clip was shared out of context.
Per Sapp’s Facebook post:
Recently, a clip has gone viral of me challenging 2,000 individuals(virtually and in person) to plant a seed of $20 during an international gathering held at a convention center, with over 4,000 people in attendance that evening plus virtual viewers. In that same moment, I also challenged leadership to lead by example by sowing $100. That evening, I personally gave much more.
Some have taken issue with a particular moment when I instructed the ushers, rather firmly, to close the doors during the offering. To those unfamiliar with the church context or who may not regularly attend worship gatherings this has been misinterpreted as holding people hostage as well as offensive. That was never my intent.
The truth is, when finances are being received in any worship gathering, it is one of the most vulnerable and exposed times for both the finance and security teams. Movement during this sacred exchange can be distracting and, at times, even risky. My directive was not about control it was about creating a safe, focused, and reverent environment for those choosing to give, and for those handling the resources.
Unfortunately, in this social media age, snippets are easily shared without context, and assumptions are quickly made without understanding the full picture. Conferences have budgets. Churches have budgets. And people have budgets. As the assigned ministerial gift for this international gathering, one of my responsibilities was to help raise the conference budget. That’s not manipulation, it’s stewardship.
Social Media Has Plenty of Thoughts On The Clip
Regardless, those on X, formerly Twitter, did not feel the moment in the clip and used it to post their hesitations about the Black Church.
“Marvin Sapp is clearly HUSTLING his congregation for 40k— and using God’s name to do it. he’s calling for the doors to be locked? that’s not faith, that’s a shakedown and a false prophet. someone had a bill to pay, and it wasn’t to the church,” one post on X read.
Another user added, “Some churches ARE cults. Would’ve had to beat Marvin Sapp’s big ass and hide the bible if God watching.”
Lol, well damn.
Sapp might be right about clips being taken out of context, but he can’t ignore people’s legitimate beef regarding churches and how they ask for money. That video was cringe-worthy; we’re just saying.
You can see more reactions in the gallery below.
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Source: Nintendo / Nintendo Direct/ Metroid Prime 4: Beyond / Shadow Labyrinth / Marvel Cosmic Invasion
With the Nintendo Switch 2 on the horizon, the company Mario built is letting us know that there are still many games to enjoy on the current Switch model.
On Thursday, March 27, Nintendo held a Nintendo Direct ahead of its big Nintendo Switch 2 presentation next week, April 2. During the nearly 40-minute presentation, Nintendo showed us some highly anticipated titles and surprises we didn’t know were in the pipeline.
Let’s jump into the biggest announcements made during yesterday’s Nintendo Direct.
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond
Source: Nintendo / Metroid Prime 4: Beyond
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond has been in video game limbo for years, but now we know it’s an actual thing. We also know what to expect from the latest game in the franchise, which puts players behind the helmet of Samus’ power suit.
In Beyond, Samsus finds herself on a mysterious planet that is teaming with alien life, friendly and dangerous as you search for answers and wield new psychic abilities on top of the arsenal granted to you by your Power Suit.
Official synopsis from Nintendo:
Samus Aran has been unexpectedly transported to the planet Viewros. As she explores the planet for answers, Samus is granted Psychic Abilities – mysterious and ancient powers that allow her to control the trajectory of her beams, operate mechanisms and open doors. Why were these powers bestowed upon Samus and what will her fate be? The threads intertwining beyond space and time will weave a new tale when Metroid Prime 4: Beyond launches on Nintendo Switch this year.
Marvel Cosmic Invasion
Source: DOTEMU / Tribute Games / Marvel Cosmic Invasion
Okay, here is a game we didn’t know we needed, but we are happy it exists. Tribute Games, the same studio that gave us other beat ’em up bangers like TMNT: Shredder’s Revenge, is dipping into the Marvel bag with Cosmic Invasion.
Published by DOTEMU, Marvel Cosmic Invasion is a love letter to the 90s beat ’em up arcade games featuring our favorite Marvel Superheroes that we willingly used our allowance money to play.
The game features a stacked roster of heroes to play with and take on the cosmic threat Annihulus. You can either suit up as Wolverine, Spider-Man, Nova, Captain America, Storm, Venom, and more to help save the world.
Official Synopsis from Nintendo:
Join MARVEL’s greatest Super Heroes, including Wolverine, Spider-Man, Nova, Captain America and more, in a star-spanning battle against Super Villain Annihilus. In this action-packed, 2D arcade-style beat ’em up, the timeless fun of brawlers has been modernized with dynamic tag-team fighting and a pixel art style that embodies classic MARVEL character designs. Plus, up to four players can assemble for local** or online*** co-op play. From New York City to the depths of the Negative Zone, the future of the MARVEL universe will be fought across the stars in MARVEL Cosmic Invasion, launching on Nintendo Switch this winter.
This one is high on our list, for sure.
Shadow Labyrinth
Source: Bandai Namco / Shadow Labyrinth
Amazon Prime’s video game anthology series, Secret Level, gave us a very dark and twisted version of the friendly power pellet /ghost-consuming character Pac-Man.
It turns out that the short was also based on an actual game, Shadow Labyrinth, that takes the same premise from the Secret Level episode. Pac-Man is taken from his familiar settings and thrown into a mysterious planet as Swordsman No. 8’s mysterious guide, PUCK.
Official Synopsis from Nintendo:
Consume darkness in this 2D action platformer and genre-twisting alternate take on the iconic PAC-MAN series. On a mysterious planet littered with relics from past wars, Swordsman No. 8 is awoken by a floating yellow orb known as PUCK. As you navigate this alien maze you will shift between three different forms – jumping and slashing as the agile Swordsman No. 8, exploring in classic PAC-MAN style as Mini PUCK and unleashing devastating power as the mecha construct GAIA. Use these different playstyles to turn the tables on your enemies and grow from prey to apex predator. Work to uncover PUCK’s true goal when Shadow Labyrinth launches for Nintendo Switch July 18. A Digital Deluxe edition of the game will also be available, featuring a digital artbook and soundtrack.
These were not the only announcements from yesterday’s Nintendo Direct presentation.
Hit the gallery below to see the other announcements.
1. DRAGON QUEST I & II HD-2D Remake
These modern versions of two legendary JRPGs continue the Erdrick Trilogy narrative of the iconic Dragon Quest series. DRAGON QUEST I & II HD-2D Remake launches for Nintendo Switch this year.
2. No Sleep For Kaname Date – From AI: THE SOMNIUM FILES
As Kaname Date – a special agent with an AI partner embedded in his left eye – your mission is to track down Iris, an internet Idol who has been trapped in a mysterious escape game. Conduct interviews to investigate her whereabouts, dive into a subject’s dreams to reveal clues hidden in their psyche and solve mind-bending puzzles to learn the truth. No Sleep For Kaname Date – From AI: THE SOMNIUM FILES launches exclusively on Nintendo Switch July 25.
3. RAIDOU Remastered: The Mystery of the Soulless Army
Unleash the supernatural and undertake the case of the century in this action RPG from ATLUS. This remaster of the classic game from the Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Summoner series features several enhancements over the original, including revamped visuals, voice acting, battle system and more. Become Devil Summoner Raidou Kuzunoha and work alongside over 120 demonic allies to unravel the mysteries that block your path. RAIDOU Remastered: The Mystery of the Soulless Army launches on Nintendo Switch June 19. A Digital Deluxe edition of the game will also be available. Pre-orders are live.
4. PATAPON 1+2 REPLAY
Remasters of the classic rhythm action games Patapon and Patapon 2 are coming to Nintendo Switch! The mysterious yet endearing creatures known as Patapon are guided on their adventures by the rhythm of four drums. Play these drums to the beat to give different commands to your Patapon army. There are multiple different classes of Patapon, including the shield-wielding Tatepon and the horse-riding Kibapon, allowing for different tactical approaches as you battle a variety of fierce foes. PATAPON 1+2 REPLAY marches onto Nintendo Switch July 11.
5. STORY OF SEASONS: Grand Bazaar
Welcome to Zephyr Town – its bazaar was once a famous destination, but it has fallen into disrepair. Originally released on Nintendo DS, this cozy farm life experience builds up and improves on the original with updated visuals, new characters, an expanded story, and voiced event scenes. Step into the shoes of a new resident with the power to breathe fresh life into the town and restore the market’s fortunes. Rebuild your farm and spend each day planting, watering, and harvesting crops while tending to the animals. Learn to harness Zephyr Town’s unique winds to make farm life and travel a breeze. Then, gather your farm’s bounty to sell at your customizable stall in the weekly bazaar. Along the way, you’ll forge friendships with a cast of charming townsfolk. And who knows, if you find that special someone, romance might blossom. STORY OF SEASONS: Grand Bazaar launches for Nintendo Switch Aug. 27.
6. Disney Villains Cursed Café
The dreams of Disney Villains are in your hands as a potionista newly in charge of a mysterious potion café in this visual novel game, illustrated in a 2D style with hand-drawn elements. Reimagined with a modern twist, players can converse with Cruella de Vil, The Evil Queen, Gaston, Captain Hook, Jafar, Maleficent, Ursula and more as you navigate the branching narrative storylines. Use ingredients provided by Yzma to brew a variety of potions for each villain to help steer them towards their desires while working to uncover the mystery of this peculiar café. Disney Villains Cursed Café launches for Nintendo Switch later today.
7. Witchbrook
Discover the magic around you in this spellbinding adventure. Start your residency as the newest witch in the bustling seaside city of Mossport. Learn spells at Witchbrook College, craft goods to grow your witch business and customize your cottage and garden to suit your style. Make friends, find love, and discover a world filled with wonder and charm on the road to graduation and beyond! Plus, up to four players can make magic together in online co-op***. Enrollment begins when Witchbrook flies onto Nintendo Switch this holiday.
8. The Eternal Life of Goldman
Step into the unexpected in this hand-drawn, story-driven 2D platforming adventure. You’ll take on the role of unlikely hero Goldman, navigating a mysterious Archipelago where twisted fairy tales and corrupted folklore come to life. Your mission is to track down the fabled Deity, a legendary figure no one has seen – yet. Blending challenging platforming gameplay with rich exploration, the game lets you upgrade your trusty cane to unlock powerful abilities. Can you uncover the secrets of this world, where myths, legends and fairy tales collide? The Eternal Life of Goldman launches for Nintendo Switch this holiday.
9. Gradius ORIGINS
It’s time to venture into deep space and face off against relentless alien forces in the GRADIUS ORIGINS collection, bringing together 17 versions of six arcade classics: GRADIUS, SALAMANDER, LIFE FORCE, GRADIUS II, GRADIUS III and SALAMANDER 2. This collection also includes the long-awaited GRADIUS III AM Show version, and a brand new entry: SALAMANDER III. Pilot your ship through dangerous enemy lines, upgrade your weapons and master the intense, fast-paced gameplay that is the hallmark of the GRADIUS series. New gameplay features include rewind, save anywhere, reduced hit detection, invincible mode and more. GRADIUS ORIGINS launches on Nintendo Switch Aug. 7. Pre-orders begin later today on Nintendo eShop.
10. Rift of the NecroDancer
Cadence and friends are back in an all new rhythm game where each note is a monster to dispatch. Dragged into a strange new world, you’ll face pulse-pounding Rhythm Rifts where every beat is a battle, all set to an original electric soundtrack by Danny Baranowsky and friends. Plus, more musical mayhem awaits in the Celeste Music Pack paid DLC****, with even more content arriving in the future. Keep the cadence going with epic boss battles, quirky minigames, remixed stages and online*** global leaderboards when Rift of the NecroDancer launches on Nintendo eShop later today!
11. Tamagotchi Plaza
Tamagotchi Plaza is the latest entry in the Tamagotchi Connection: Corner Shop series of shop simulator games. Set in the charming Tamahiko Town, players will manage a dozen different shops and engage with over 100 Tamagotchi as you take orders and help with lost items and enhance each shop’s reputation. Create the perfect glasses for your patrons in the Eyewear Shop, set tables to match your style at the Tea Shop, visit the Dentist where cavities are treated and many more. Plus, play with friends in two shops with local two-player co-op and versus modes. Celebrate the world of Tamagotchi when Tamagotchi Plaza launches on Nintendo Switch June 27.
12. Pokémon Legends: Z-A
Choose either Chikorita, Tepig or Totodile to be your first partner Pokémon and begin a new adventure in Lumiose City – a setting that was introduced in the Pokémon X and Pokémon Y games on the Nintendo 3DS family of systems. Here, Quasartico Inc. is carrying out an urban redevelopment plan with the goal of making it easier for people and Pokémon to coexist. But when the sun goes down, the battles heat up. At night highly skilled Trainers are invited to participate in the Z-A Royale tournament: Just enter a battle zone to begin your climb from Rank Z all the way up to Rank A – Trainers who reach the top are even said to have a wish granted. Day and night reveal two sides to Lumiose City … so what will you find on your adventure? Pokémon Legends: Z-A launches on Nintendo Switch late 2025.
13. Rhythm Heaven Groove
The Rhythm Heaven series returns with a brand new entry: Rhythm Heaven Groove! Play a wealth of eclectic rhythm games along with music produced by the renowned Japanese musician Tsunku
. Don’t miss a beat when Rhythm Heaven Groove launches on Nintendo Switch in 2026.
14. High On Life
Experience the hit action-adventure comedy title on Nintendo Switch. Rescue and team up with charismatic talking guns and become the deadliest intergalactic bounty hunter the cosmos has ever seen. High On Life launches on Nintendo Switch May 6.
15. Star Overdrive – Speed into the Unknown Trailer
Explore a massive world on your Hoverboard and use your powers to overcome challenges, face multitudes of enemies, solve puzzles and shape your destiny! Star Overdrive launches as a timed system exclusive on Nintendo Switch April 10.
16. The Wandering Village
Experience a city-building strategy game set on the back of a giant, roaming creature. Build a settlement and form a symbiotic relationship with the colossus to survive together in this hostile, yet vibrant post-apocalyptic world. The Wandering Village arrives on Nintendo Switch July 17.
17. FANTASY LIFE i: The Girl Who Steals Time – New Life Guide
Begin a fantastic life on a ruined island and embark on a great adventure into the past! Gather friends, craft and rebuild the island when Fantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Time launches on Nintendo Switch May 21.
18. SaGa Frontier 2 Remastered – Launch Trailer
In this HD remaster of the RPG classic, step into the world of Sandail and follow the intertwined fates of Gustave, a royal heir caught in a struggle for power, and Wil, an excavator confronting a hidden world-threatening danger. Their journeys unfold through the innovative History Choice system, where key events can be experienced from multiple perspectives. Featuring deep storytelling and strategic battles, SaGa Frontier 2 Remastered weaves a tale of legacy and destiny unfolding across generations. Featuring fully enhanced HD watercolor visuals, additional in-game events and refined gameplay mechanics, you can uncover history once more when SaGa Frontier 2 Remastered launches on Nintendo Switch later today.
19. Monument Valley
Embark on a series of peaceful journeys across this trilogy of meditative puzzle games. Explore isometric worlds filled with individually crafted puzzles to unravel, stunning landscapes to manipulate, optical illusions to discover and mysterious secrets to uncover. Monument Valley and Monument Valley 2 feature all additional chapters, add-ons and the DLC for the complete experience. Monument Valley 3 is a fresh entry point for newcomers, introducing dynamic sailing mechanics that offer expansive open-ended exploration on tranquil seas. Monument Valley and Monument Valley 2 launch on Nintendo Switch April 15, with pre-orders beginning later today on Nintendo eShop. Monument Valley 3 sets sail on Nintendo Switch this summer.
20. EVERYBODY’S GOLF: HOT SHOTS – Announcement Trailer
The popular golf game series makes its debut on Nintendo Switch with a variety of characters and courses. The three-button shot mechanic makes it so anybody can jump in and begin playing; it’s easy to learn yet challenging to master. Win in-game tournaments in the single player Challenge Mode to unlock characters and courses, or try out the new Wacky Golf mode, where all sorts of shenanigans can help or hinder your chances. Up to four golfers can hit the fairway together locally** or online***. Customize your character, grab your clubs and get ready to par-tee when EVERYBODY’S GOLF: Hot Shots launches on Nintendo Switch this year.
21. Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream
The Tomodachi Life series is back with its first brand new entry in over ten years. Create your own Mii characters based on yourself, friends, family – anyone! – and watch them live their lives on an island out at sea. Get involved with their relationships and experience all the weird and wonderful ways these Mii characters interact. You may even drop in on their dreams! Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream launches on Nintendo Switch in 2026.
22. Nintendo Today!
A brand-new app* that delivers Nintendo content to your smart devices. This smart-device app is like a daily calendar which delivers a variety of content including latest news, videos, and comics of your favorite Nintendo games and characters from select franchises. After the Nintendo Direct presentation about Nintendo Switch 2 on April 2, you’ll also find information about the Nintendo Switch 2 system directly on the app. Anyone with a Nintendo Account and compatible smart device can use the free app. Available to download from the App Store and Google Play starting later today.
23. Virtual Game Card
Introducing the virtual game card – a new feature for easily managing purchased digital games, playing games on two different systems, and even lending or borrowing games. Similar in concept to moving physical game cards between systems, virtual game cards make it possible to “eject” a purchased digital title from one Nintendo Switch system and “load” it onto another – whether it belongs to a member of the same Nintendo Account family group, or a second system tied to your account. This optional feature allows you to view virtual game cards or eject them from your system. The digital game can also be lent to a Nintendo Account family group member’s system via local wireless connection. Games that you lend can then be played on a Nintendo Account family group member’s system for two weeks, after which the game will be automatically returned to you. This feature will be available on Nintendo Switch starting late April via a hardware system update. Additionally, virtual game cards will also work with Nintendo Switch 2 systems at launch.
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Source: Marvel Studios / Avengers: Doomsday
Marvel Studios did something entirely different by announcing that Avengers: Doomsday is in production and revealing the highly anticipated comic book movie with a huge cast.
X, formerly Twitter, was buzzing when the Marvel Studios account went live, leaving fans wondering what big announcement was coming. Little did they know they were in for five hours of watching chairs with names lined up to reveal who would be in the film.
The live stream began at 8 am PT Wednesday with Disney-owned studio slowly revealing each cast member by playing accompanying music associated with their characters while placing down the chairs.
Millions of fans tuned in to the 5 hour live stream in hopes their patience would eventually be rewarded, but nope, it was just chairs, and it also just proved how much of stranglehold Marvel Studios still has on the culture.
Out of all of the 27 cast members announced, there was only one person in the exceptionally large soundstage, Robert Downey Jr. himself who was revealed to be playing Dr. Doom in the Russo Brothers directed superhero epic.
Almost Everybody And Their Momma’s Are In Avengers: Doomsday
Some of the names revealed to be in the film should have come as a surprise, especially to those who follow Marvel Studios. Those names include:
Chris Hemsworth as Thor
Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm / Invisible Woman
Anthony Mackie as Captain America
Sebastian Stan as Bucky Barnes
Letitia Wright as Shuri / Black Panther
Paul Rudd as Ant-Man
Wyatt Russell as John Walker / U.S. Agent
Tenoch Huerta Mejía as Namor
Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm / Thing
Simu Liu as Shang-Chi
Florence Pugh as Yelena Belova
Lewis Pullman as Sentry
Danny Ramirez as Falcon
Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm / Human Torch
David Harbour as Red Guardian
Winston Duke as M’Baku
Hannah John-Kamen as Ghost
Tom Hiddleston as Loki
Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards / Mister Fantastic
Robert Downey Jr. as Doctor Doom
The biggest surprised had to be the announcement of the return of OG X-Men from the Fox movie franchises, Patrick Stewart (Professor X), Ian McKellen (Magneto), Alan Cumming (Nightcrawler), James Marsden (Cyclops) and Rebacca Romijin (Mystique).
A huge surprise was the announcement of Channing Tatum reprising his role of Gambit we met in Deadpool & Wolverine which was a hit. So clearly he did make a name for himself.
Glaring Ommissions
There were some glaring omissions, no Halle Berry Famke Janssen, or Anna Paquin. Also, Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman were also missing plus, fans couldn’t help but bring up Chris Evans, the original Captain America in the MCU.
But chances are high that Kevin Feige has plenty up his sleeve in terms of cameos and other easter eggs when it comes Avengers: Doomsday, so we don’t think these announcements begin to scratch the film’s surface.
But, like with the poster reveal for Avengers: Endagame which became a hilarious meme, the cast reveal for Doomsday has also spawned jokes with users on X, formerly Twitter adding random pop culture characters to the film’s cast.
Lol bruh.
You can always count on social media to deliver some laughs.
Hit the gallery below for more reactions to the Avengers: Doomsday cast reveal.
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Source: Getty Images / LeBron James / Stephen A. Smith
The LeBron James versus Stephen A. Smith “beef” has become more comical.
In his 22 seasons, LeBron James has given all indications that he gives zero f***s and is clapping back at anyone who he feels did him or his family dirty or has some wild takes.
James has clearly grown tired of ESPN workhorse Stephen A. Smith constantly talking about him, but the final straw was the analyst talking about James’ firstborn son and now Los Angeles Lakers teammate Bronny James, which led to a now-infamous confrontation that Smith can’t seem to stop revisiting.
The Chosen One got Stephen A. Smith in his feelings again after he stopped by The Pat McAfee Show and addressed Smith’s behavior following the incident.
“He’s on a Taylor Swift tour run right now. It started off with ‘I didn’t wanna address it, but since the video came out, I have to,’” James told McAfee, explaining the ongoing beef with the sports pundit, who is now dipping his toes into politics.
James continued, “Never would I not allow people to criticize players about what they do on the court. That is your job. That’s all part of the game. But when you get personal with it it’s my job to not only protect my damn household but protect the players,” James says before imagining the pundit’s reaction to the clip. “He’s going to be smiling from ear to ear when he hears me talking about him. He’s gonna get home and get some ice ream out of the f-cking freezer and sit in his chair in tighty whiteys on the couch. Like, dude, relax.
Stephen A. Smith Says He Would Have “Swung On” James
Of course, Smith would have something to say on the matter, and he responded via his podcast, The Stephen A. Smith Show, where he spent the entire show blasting James, even claiming he would have “swung on” the professional hooper if things got physical.
He also added that he’s pretty sure he would have gotten his “ass kicked” by James if the two were to have thrown hands.
“When he approached me sitting courtside at that game against the New York Knicks, when he rolled up on me I didn’t know he was gonna roll up on me,” Smith said. “I had no idea, but when he said what he had to say I was in no position to give any kind of retort without making a scene. It was during the third quarter, it was fresh out of a timeout, it was him walking to the basketball court. It was on national television, the cameras were rolling and had I done something what do ya’ll want me to do? You want this to be a reincarnation of Chris Rock and Will Smith?”
“And let me state for the record while we bring up that, let me assure you it wouldn’t have gone down like that. I would have gotten my ass kicked because if that man put his hands on me I would’ve immediately swung on him. Immediately. That I’m not going to tolerate,” he continued.
Nobody Believes You, Stephen A. Smith
As expected, everyone is clowning Stephen A. Smith. LeBron James didn’t waste time responding via Instagram, sharing a video of Smith participating in boxing training and looking ridiculous.
James’ Cavaliers teammate, Kevin Love, even got in on the action.
LOL.
Stephen A. Smith is looking quite foolish. You can see more reactions in the gallery below.
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Source: Assassin’s Creed Shadows / Getty Images / Elon Musk
Whoever runs the official X account for Ubisoft’s latest video game, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, deserves a very nice raise.
The Assassin’s Creed Shadows X account has 0 f**** to give. The person behind social posts on the account let Elon Musk have it after he began complaining about the game.
Last night, Musk, who should be busy ensuring DOGE is productive—spoiler alert: it’s not—took to his platform to talk about the latest game in the famed Assassin’s Creed franchise. He explicitly mentioned streamer Hasan Piker, who flagged his stream of Shadwos as sponsored content.
Musk, of all the people in the world, called Piker a “fraud” before adding “Sell-out’ would be more accurate. Objectively, he is promoting a terrible game just for the money.”
https://x.com/elonmusk/status/1904594321199988935
Ubisoft would not take Musk’s trash talk sitting down and hit him with the hidden blade in the form of a scathing clapback, “Is that what the guy playing your Path of Exile 2 account told you?”
The X post has amassed over 600K likes and over 60K reposts. Comedian /writer Mike Drucker accurately described the moment: “It turns out the real assassins were the social media managers we met along the way.”
https://x.com/MikeDrucker/status/1904663808921993670
Elon Musk’s History of Cheating
Why is this post so significant? The AC Shadows account alludes to Musk being exposed as a cheater after he claimed to be an expert Path of Exile 2 player after Musk exposed himself during his stream when gamers noticed his lack of skills in the game for having such a high build character.
Gamers immediately accused Musk of “fraudmaxing,” basically paying someone good at the game to play for him. Musk eventually admitted to cheating in the game, and gamers were furious that the game’s developers didn’t take action.
Musk was not the only person who felt the wrath of the Assassin’s Creed Shadows account. Mark Kern, who goes by the handle @Grummz on X and is always bitching and moaning about games being “too woke” and other ridiculous nonsense, got some smoke too.
https://x.com/assassinscreed/status/1904661876681699351
Kern has spent a lot of his time hating on the game, so it should sting to see the game he confidently thought would flop be successful. Ubisoft announced that the game has already hit 2 million players, which could continue to climb as gamers love that the AC ShadowX account has no chill.
One user said on X, “Was gonna wait for a sale but nah y’all have earned this.”
Well, they should enjoy AC Shadows because it is great game, you can peep our review here.
The gallery below also shows more reactions to Elon Musk’s being fried by the Shadows X account.
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Source: Getty Images / Greg Abbott / Jasmine Crockett
Democratic Rep. Jasmine Crockett continues to get under the skin of MAGA Republicans. The snowflakes are now BIG MAD after the Texas congresswoman referred to Governor Greg Abbott as “Hot Wheels.” X was quick to remind them of their blatant hypocrisy.
Republicans are clutching their pearls and pounding their fists on their desks in anger after Jasmine Crockett referred to Greg Abbott, who uses a wheelchair, as “hot wheels.”
Their bellyaching comes as they were loudly silent as Elon Musk referred to a user on his platform as a “chickensh*t “R” word” as well as other people he disagrees with.
Republicans also didn’t seem to care when the leader of their party, Donald Trump, mocked New York Times reporter Serge Kovaleski, who has a disability.
Fox News reports that one Republican, Rep. Randy Weber, plans to introduce a resolution to censure Crockett. “Meanwhile, the actions of Jasmine Crockett – stooping to vile levels of discrimination and despicable political attacks – are nothing short of reprehensible,” Weber said to the news outlet.
Jasmine Crockett Defends Her Use of “Hot Wheels”
Crockett has responded to the “outrage” and defended her use of the term.
“I wasn’t thinking about the governor’s condition—I was thinking about the planes, trains, and automobiles he used to transfer migrants into communities led by Black mayors, deliberately stoking tension and fear among the most vulnerable. Literally, the next line I said was that he was a “Hot A** Mess,” referencing his terrible policies. At no point did I mention or allude to his condition. So, I’m even more appalled that the very people who unequivocally support Trump—a man known for racially insensitive nicknames and mocking those with disabilities—are now outraged,” Crockett wrote on X, formerly Twitter.
She continued, “Keep that same energy for all people, not just your political adversaries. Finally, this is yet another distraction. Instead of obsessing over and hanging on to my every word, maybe my political foes should focus on doing the work of the people who elected us to improve their lives.”
Crockett also shared a link to a story about Abbott spending $148 million bussing migrants to other parts of the country.
Social Media Is Siding With Jasmine Crockett
Jasmine Crockett can also count on social media to have her back as they are pointing out the hypocrisy and many instances of Republicans resorting to name-calling, racist remarks, and other egregious behavior.
“Stop with the performative outrage MAGA. You’re not offended by Jasmine Crockett calling Greg Abbott, Governor Hot Wheels. You had no issues with voting in a rapist, racist, habitual liar and felon into the presidency. I thought y’all liked it when people tell it like it is?,” one user on X wrote.
Another user on X wrote, “Don’t let Jasmine Crockett calling Greg Abbott “Governor Hot Wheels” distract you from his desire to take healthcare away from Texas women & children. Don’t let that distract you from how his state is 41st in education.”
We here at HHW and iOne Digital don’t rock with ableists. Still, in this case, we see the jig with Republicans, especially the same group of Republicans who have referred to Crockett as “ghetto” and “loud.” We are currently whitewashing the country by getting rid of DEI.
Just saying.
You can see more reactions in the gallery below.
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Source: NurPhoto / Getty / Pete Hegseth / Signal
Donald Trump’s second presidency continues to be a hot a** mess, largely thanks to the people in his administration, like Pete Hegseth.
Trump’s cabinet is full of DEI hires who never miss an opportunity to show the American people they have no business being in the positions that Republicans stupidly allowed them to have.
Former Fox News host Pete Hegseth, now Secretary of Defense, a position he has no business in, stupidly attacked the reporter who blew the lid on what could be one of the biggest blunders in national security history.
Jeffrey Goldberg did his job when he reported on the massive blunder of Trump’s national security team members sharing classified war plans on Signal, an unsecured messenger app.
In response, Republicans, especially of the MAGA variety, did what they do best: not take accountability for their actions. Pete Hegseth took things even further and attacked Goldberg even after his Boss’ administration did admit to Goldberg being in the group chat when he he he talking to reporters fresh off a flight to Hawaii.
Per Crooks & Liars:
You’re talking about a deceitful and highly discredited so-called journalist who’s made a profession of peddling hoaxes time and time again to include the, I don’t know, the hoaxes of Russia, Russia, Russia, or the fine people on both sides hoax or suckers and losers hoax.
So this is the guy that peddles in garbage. This is what he does. I would love to comment on the Houthi campaign because of the skill and courage of our troops.
I’ve monitored it very closely from the beginning, and you see, we’ve been managing four years of deferred maintenance under the Trump administration.
Our troops, our sailors were getting shot at as targets. Our ships couldn’t sail through. And when they did shoot back, it was purely defensively or at shacks in Yemen.
President Trump said no more. We will reestablish deterrence. We will open freedom of navigation, and we will ultimately decimate the Houthis, which is exactly what we’re doing as we speak, from the beginning, overwhelmingly.
Republicans have been downplaying the incident all day, with Trump’s national security team doing a piss poor job answering questions during an Intelligence Committee grilling session on Capitol Hill.
The calls for Hegseth to be fired have been very loud, as have other reactions to the incident. You can see them in the gallery below.
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Source: Game Informer / Game Informer
Game Informer has been given a well-deserved extra life.
It’s been nearly half a year since the gaming community sobbed collectively and scowled at GameStop for the sudden shutdown of the beloved Game Informer Magazine. Now the gaming bible is back, and what’s even more dope is that the whole team is coming back.
Game Informer Editor-In-Chief Matt Miller revealed in a “Letter From an Editor ” section that Game Informer’s complete resurrection was made possible after Gunzilla Games secured the rights to Game Informer from GameStop. The plan was to bring back not only the entire editorial team but also “production and beyond.”
Miller also noted that Game Informer’s new owners “insisted on the idea of Game Informer remaining an independent editorial outlet; they felt just as strongly as our team did that the only path forward was with an editorial group that made 100 percent of the decisions around what we cover and how we do so, without any influence from them or anyone else.”
That’s dope.
A Breakdown of Gunzilla Games
As for Gunzilla Games, they developed and published the free-to-play battle royale game Off The Grid, which is now in early access. It’s also the developer behind GunZ, which is described as a “Layer-1 blockchain ecosystem powering community-driven economies in AAA games.”
District 9 and Chappie director Neill Blomkamp is also chief creative officer and co-founder.
GI will operate under a completely new entity called Game Informer Inc., which will also see the return of all 30 years of the website’s history after many thought it could have been lost following the website’s abrupt shutdown.
The GI team is also hitting the ground running. It will publish dozens of game reviews that were left in the chamber during the magazine’s unfortunate hiatus and its Best of 2024 awards.
As mentioned, the print magazine will also make its triumphant return, but GI fans will have to wait until a later date. Miller promises the magazine will be “bigger and better than it was before.”
GI will also be rolling out membership and subscription benefits plus “bigger and better than it was before” while expanding the “range of experts and partnerships we tap to bring you those perspectives.”
If you’re excited about this news like everyone else, you can create a new account to stay informed about the website’s updates.
Early signup will also get you access to the Game Informer Magazine Archive, an exclusive weekly newsletter, Dark Mode, and Early-Bird Founder Access.
Congrats to the GI team, and welcome back. You were all truly missed.
For reactions to the good news, hit the gallery below.
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Source: Justin Sullivan / Getty / 23andMe
23andMe has filed for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy, so what the hell does that mean for DNA records? Users are understandably worried.
Spotted on Newsweek, the genetic testing company 23andMe is going through some financial hard times and had to file for bankruptcy on Sunday, and now the future of the company is looking shaky, leaving many wondering what in the world is going to happen to the database of genetic profiles for the over 15 million people who have signed up for the service.
23andMe is best known for shipping at-home DNA testing kits to customers to help them discover their roots or see if they are predisposed to specific health issues.
Despite initial success, with its peak market valuation reaching $5.8 billion in 2021, the company has experienced financial woes, and its value has dropped $50 million.
Per Newsweek:
“Importantly, this step allows us to continue operating our business while we chart the path forward.”
In a statement given to Newsweek, a spokesperson for 23andMe said: “There are no changes to the way the Company stores, manages, or protects customer data.
“Any buyer will be required to comply with applicable law with respect to the treatment of customer data and any transaction will be subject to customary regulatory approvals, including, as applicable, approvals under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Act and the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States.”
Changes At The Top For 23andMe
Plenty of changes have already taken place at the top as part of the bankruptcy. The company’s co-founder and CEO, Anne Wojcicki, has resigned.
Wojcicki has been trying to purchase all outstanding shares that she doesn’t already control after failing multiple times to take the company private. This has resulted in pushback from the company’s board and the resignation of seven independent directors in September 2024.
She is still pursuing this option.
What Can Customers Do?
Understandably, those who have used the service are worried about what’s going to happen with their genetic data. There are steps you can take for some peace of mind.
According to Newsweek, any 23andmMe customer can request any data about them being held removed.
Other steps include:
Go to the “Settings” section of your profile. Scroll to a section labeled “23andMe Data” at the bottom of the page. Download your data: If you want a copy of your genetic data for personal storage, choose the option to download it to your device before proceeding. Scroll to the “Delete Data” section.
You can see reactions to 23andMe filing for bankruptcy below.