KSI has revealed that physical confrontations and a toxic environment drove his sudden exit from The Sidemen after 13 years.
The 33-year-old YouTuber, whose real name is Olajide ‘JJ’ Olatunji, shared the full account in a new YouTube video titled I Finally Admit Everything…, posted after he announced his departure in May. He helped found the British collective back in 2013 alongside six other creators who built a massive following through gaming videos, challenges, and merchandise.
In the video, KSI described how disagreements over the group’s future direction had spiraled beyond creative differences. “Behind the scenes, there was a lot of confrontation,” he explained. “At some points, there was some physical confrontation, but there was a lot of confrontation.”
The Londoner said members had fundamentally split on how they wanted the collective to evolve. He personally wanted things to slow down, while others pushed for a different approach entirely. “I felt like the environment was toxic, some people didn’t,” he said.
Despite the friction, KSI emphasized that his former collaborators were financially secure and capable of thriving without him. “They are all millionaires. They all have great lives, they all have fantastic families,” he said. “They’re good. They don’t need me anymore.”
He characterized the split as a natural divergence rather than a catastrophic falling-out, describing it as a choice between growing together and growing apart. He chose the latter.
KSI acknowledged his own impulsivity played a role in how the departure unfolded. “I’m an impulsive guy,” he explained, adding that he wanted to leave ‘on my own terms’ rather than have news of his exit published without his control. He admitted he could have handled the announcement better.
The Sidemen responded publicly in June through an Instagram statement, expressing well wishes for JJ while noting the departure caught them off guard and did not unfold as they would have preferred. The remaining members—Ethan, Harry, Josh, Simon, Tobi, and Vik—confirmed they would continue their regular content schedule. “Unfortunately JJ released the news before we had agreed on a mutual way of letting our audience know,” the group wrote. They added that they would have preferred to give KSI a proper farewell video and allow everyone time to process the decision.
KSI has insisted he carries no bitterness toward his former teammates. “I hold no anger, or jealousy, or envy towards them,” he said. “I just want the best for them.” He noted that he still speaks to some members, though he no longer keeps in touch with others.
The YouTuber built The Sidemen from scratch alongside his fellow creators, turning their gaming content and collaborative videos into one of Britain’s most successful online brands. The group expanded into boxing events, a clothing line, and various business ventures over their decade-plus run together.
KSI’s solo career has continued to expand through his music, boxing matches, and various business investments. He had previously taken breaks from the group but had never fully severed ties until this spring.
The Sidemen have been approached for comment.