Why I will not Cover or Watch the Esports World Cup

[TravisGafford]

One of the things I should have mentioned in the video, as I assume I'll see people rush to the comments to type this, is "keep the politics out of this." It's a frequent refrain. I don't always agree with that sentiment, but if you feel that way, then you and I are IN AGREEMENT ON THIS ISSUE.
If you want to "keep politics out of esports" then you probably shouldn't want tournaments being put on by political groups and governments.

[andrewadams]

Travis is a GigaChad for being willing to speak out on these types of topics despite the " uncomfortability" it might cause for his usual audience. It will be a god damn shame if esports winter gets so bad that we lose journalists with integrity like Travis because there isn't enough money to support him.

[Pizzastealingninja]

Travis Gafford: real as fuck since before he was supporting the esports scene with his literal couch.

[TheBigAngryHobo]

Travis this is one of the best videos you’ve ever made, not from like a quality or content reason but just another example of why I’ve supported you for the last 10+ years. You’re so genuine in everything you do and you’re bringing issues like this to light to the greater community. Thank you Travis.

[HT-jjsx]

Principles are only important when they're challenged Travis. Well done sir, it's easy to just 'go along' with it, especially when it's your job. So many people will ignore this and pretend it's not a thing, just for the cash. It takes a ton of guts to do this man. Hella respect.

[ljackspeter]

Please note anyone saying But the US government. But the US government doesn't own and operate the LCS

[timothymorton]

"Sometimes a hypocrite is nothing more than a man in the process of changing."

[karnliberated]

Hell yeah Travis. Thanks for having a backbone and being a man of your principles. So much respect.

[henryhilt]

Big props to you for both outlining why you’re upset and making a stand and acknowledging the gray areas - one of the best explanations of a public moral stance I’ve heard to date.

[domikatz]

Holy shit respect to you. I really thought you wouldn’t have adresses it and went along with it. Sideshows video is a great recommendation it changed my mind from not caring or slight discomfort to feeling very bad about it and actively not watching nor talking about it

[lhoxdsw]

I live in Saudi Arabia and I will happily go and enjoy it

[achilleszeus]

We need more Americans standing up for what's true instead of receiving a bag.

[bigdamij]

This is what journalism looks like. This video is excellent example of what genuine beliefs and morals look like. Expressing opinions while leaving room and opportunity for others to express theirs. Supporting their decision to not support you. You rock dude.

Hit me up and let’s play some magic.

[dopinhimer]

Travis, thank you for speaking up and standing for what you believe is right. Your moral rectitude is admirable.

[jcprs]

Happy you're taking this stance Travis. I was very disappointed by the Fighting Game Community and their widespread complacence regarding the influx of Saudi blood money and was worried this would be the reaction in the League scene. Glad to see you standing up for what's right.

[aoh]

Honestly as an American I can't say much. Especially what we did in Iraq and more we can't say much... but then we're usually ignorant and biased. But then again LCS isn't ran by the government...

[A.G.puffnstuff]

Hell yeah. Conviction is rare in this sphere of the internet so respect

[TheMrgodness]

Thanks for sharing this. Without your coverage, I would have undoubtedly watched the esports cup!

[sanchicho]

always respected you but now i do even more than ever
very happy to see you not only openly discussing this but also deciding not to cover this event

[BadgerUKvideo]

Fair play. This is a stance that will hurt your pocket in the long term. We're all hypocrites to whatever degree but not all of us actually do something about it.