In the fast-paced world of digital marketing, timing and bold decisions often separate the successful from the forgotten. Daniel Knight, the founder of Sidekick Boxing, understood this better than most when he made the calculated move to reinsert himself into the media narrative surrounding one of the internet’s most controversial figures—Andrew Tate.
Knight’s connection to Tate wasn’t new. “I hadn’t worked with Andrew Tate for nearly 10 years,” he said. But when Tate’s name began dominating headlines and social media feeds in early 2023, Knight saw more than just controversy—he saw a golden opportunity.
“I knew it was surrounded by negative news,” Knight admitted, “but I just couldn’t miss an opportunity to get covered in mainstream media.”
More about Sidekick and Andrew Tate
Sidekick Boxing had long been a recognizable name in combat sports equipment, but the brand hadn’t achieved the viral visibility that often defines modern success. So, Knight made the bold decision to publicly align Sidekick with Tate’s sudden surge in notoriety. By reviving old footage and testimonials of Tate using Sidekick gear during his kickboxing days, Knight tapped into the frenzy of online discussions—and it worked.

SHOP: The Kickboxer Collection
Social media picked up on the association quickly, and platforms like TikTok and Instagram helped amplify the brand’s visibility. The Sidekick name began circulating in comment sections, podcasts, and even mainstream news outlets, often as part of discussions on Tate’s career origins. While some questioned the ethics of aligning with a polarizing figure, the media exposure was undeniable.
Knight’s move wasn’t without risk, but in an era where attention is currency, the gamble paid off. Sidekick Boxing’s traffic spiked, and brand awareness grew dramatically. For Knight, it was a masterclass in media hijacking—an example of how leveraging controversy can catapult a business into the spotlight.
While the long-term effects of the association remain to be seen, Knight’s boldness has sparked discussions in the marketing world about the fine line between brand growth and brand integrity.
One thing is clear: Daniel Knight knew the power of a viral wave—and he made sure Sidekick was riding it.
READ MORE: Street Fighter 6 to be released on the new Nintendo Switch 2