The famous Kings League, Evening of the Year, Ibainéfico, Balloon World Cup, Disaster Chefs, Campanas with Ramón García and Anne Igartiburu, Twitch Grand Prix, The Last One Standing, the 3×3 basketball tournament, and above all the esports team KOI stand out as milestones in a remarkable rise. Big football events like Copa América broadcasts and the launch of Leo Messi as a PSG player have unsettled sports journalism in surprising ways. Hours and hours in front of the camera have become a near daily routine. It is nearly impossible to recall every achievement of this figure in recent years. The list feels endless. Known across Spain, this young Basque talent has earned a place in today’s most influential circles. The reach extends beyond Spain, charging Latin American audiences as well. Some call him the noble giant, a nickname that hints at the public image he has built. Part of the secret behind his success lies in two simple words.
Although he now turns almost everything into revenue, the journey remains a hard one. It is far from easy. Not long ago, the standard idol for Spanish youth was a handsome, wealthy footballer. Fernando Torres, Cristiano Ronaldo, and later Gerard Piqué embodied that ideal. Piqué even became a partner in business ventures. Hobbies have broadened, and not all role models come from the same mold. This marks the Ibai phenomenon, a breakthrough that redefined how success could be built from a Basque City room.
“There is more to it. The way he communicates, the way he expresses himself.” A colleague notes that he is an honest figure who does not wade into missteps and offers support to many people. The claim holds that Twitch did not vanish in the pandemic; rather, Rubius remains a goldmine for teens who want to stand shoulder to shoulder with AuronPlay or IlloJuan because monetizing content is straightforward. Subscriptions can translate into significant monthly earnings depending on the model, with tiers such as 4.99, 9.99, and 24.99 euros per month. The platform retains a substantial share. It is described as a powerful and engaging tool by commentators.
Creators like Ibai have helped Twitch move away from being seen as a space solely for video game fans. It has grown into a versatile hub for entertainment. He began with video games but adapted to host a broad range of programming. Today he is a creator who can trigger events, and that shift has helped solidify the platform as a primary venue for live content. Open University of Catalonia experts emphasize this evolution, noting that the platform now attracts a wider audience and a broader slate of guests. They express confidence that many more creators with similar profiles will emerge on Twitch, bringing new life to the service.
Ibai’s influence also bridges generations. While a viewer over fifty may not recognize a Willyrex or Vegetta777, many grandmothers now know Ibai Llanos. This is thanks to crossover events that rival traditional television. His appearance at Puerta del Sol on the last night of the year with Ramón García and Anne Igartiburu illustrates this blend. The fragments of his events appear on traditional TV, and those who follow him can also become followers. The ability to transfer his speech to other media helps different public segments move closer to the same content, according to observers.
continuous renewal
The successful entertainer does not rest. He pursues fresh ideas and new content with a sharp sense of what resonates now. He maintains a highly current footprint, and audiences keep coming back, eager to see what he will do next. His confidence, some describe as audacious, shows in his willingness to challenge norms, satirize topics, and spark controversy. Discussion becomes a driver of engagement in social networks, and Ibai navigates boundaries with humor that softens the impact of his statements. He is willing to laugh at himself and acknowledge limits, avoiding unnecessary melodrama while keeping the spotlight on his projects.
Experts agree that this combination creates a powerful dynamic. Work ethic, persistence, talent, consistency, and strategic vision closely align with a growing enterprise. They note that the balance between audience understanding and preserving a distinctive style is essential, along with a steadfast commitment to innovation in narrative delivery and personal approach to communication.
Benefit from synergies
Ibai has achieved a notable shift from supporting player to lead performer. A prime example is the periodic Calm-chat episodes on his Twitch channel. Guests have included prominent figures such as Quevedo, Aitana, Bad Rabbit, Ronaldinho, Pau Gasol, and Ed Sheeran, with a recent public appearance by a national coach who spoke openly about a recent setback. These moments underscore how the channel becomes a focal point for broader sports media coverage.
Major figures recognize that inviting creators to interviews is a way to ensure a positive experience. They know the sessions will be enjoyable and free of harm. The creator’s broad appeal helps attract other well-known personalities to participate, expanding the reach of the content. Not bound by traditional rules, Ibai’s presence guarantees visibility for guests and reinforces the appeal of his events.
brand energy
Brands aim to align with the Ibai edge, seeking to anchor products to his events. Diverse names such as Grefusa, Infojobs, Pepsi, Fotocasa, and Central Lechera Asturiana have already partnered with him. The appeal lies in influence, measurable returns on investment, and the weight of associating with a strong personal brand. Experts highlight that a brand needs more than follower count; it requires genuine interaction. Ibai’s straightforward, warm, and engaging voice makes collaborations feel authentic and effective.
As one analyst puts it, the approach feels like a candy—sweet, addictive, and still climbing. It seems the ascent is far from finished.