'I was offered money to speak against Virat': German model LizLaz admits she was approached to defame Kohli

German model LizLaz has sparked a media frenzy by revealing that she was offered substantial sums of money to disparage cricket icon Virat Kohli. The controversy stems from an incident earlier this year when the former Indian captain and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) star 'liked' one of her posts on Instagram. Given Kohli’s status as one of the world's most-followed athletes, boasting over 273 million followers, his social media interactions are subject to intense scrutiny, making even a simple 'like' a major talking point for fans and media alike.

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Some people even pressure you to say things you don't want to say: Lizlaz on Kohli's 'liking' saga

Following the initial social media stir, LizLaz disclosed that several media outlets approached her with financial incentives to manufacture negative stories and spread false rumors about the legendary batter. Despite the pressure and the potential for a large payout, the model reportedly declined the offers without hesitation. She clarified that Kohli is actually her favorite cricketer and expressed that she would never participate in a campaign to tarnish his reputation.

'Some journalists even offered me money to say bad things about Kohli'

Reflecting on the original interaction, LizLaz shared how deeply moved she was by the cricketer's attention. She described feeling both shocked and emotional upon discovering that Kohli had liked her reel, a moment she clearly cherishes. By coming forward about the attempts to bribe her, she has highlighted the often-aggressive nature of the media cycle surrounding high-profile sports stars like Kohli.

"I was very happy and a little emotional about it, but I never expected something like this to happen. I would get so many calls from different magazines. Some people even pressure you to say things you don't want to say. Some journalists even offered me money to say bad things about him (Virat Kohli) and make allegations he never made. But why would I do that? I said it myself that he's my favourite cricketer. So why would I say bad things about him for money? I'm not that kind of person,” LizLaz was quoted as saying on Dainik Bhaskar.

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However, the veracity of Lizlaz's comments is yet to be known.

In the wake of the recent social media buzz, LizLaz has leaned into her connection with the franchise by sharing several photos of herself sporting a Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) jersey. These posts were shared ahead of the team's high-stakes clash against the Mumbai Indians in Raipur on May 10, a game that ultimately ended in a heartbreaking, last-ball victory for the defending champions. Virat Kohli, however, has addressed similar social media incidents in the past. While his account has occasionally been seen liking various posts, the legendary batter has previously clarified that such activity was not his doing, suggesting that these interactions can sometimes occur without his direct involvement.