German Influencer LizLaz Claims She Was Offered Money to Defame Virat Kohli After Viral Instagram Like Controversy

A fresh twist has emerged in the viral social media controversy involving Virat Kohli and German-South African influencer LizLaz, with the content creator now claiming she was offered money to make negative statements against the Indian cricket superstar.

The controversy first gained traction in April 2026 after Kohli's Instagram account allegedly liked - and later unliked - one of LizLaz's photographs. The interaction quickly became a viral talking point online, triggering memes, speculation and widespread discussion across social media platforms.

The incident drew comparisons with an earlier viral episode involving Indian influencer Avneet Kaur.

LizLaz Rejects Alleged Offers Against Kohli

Speaking in an interview with FilmyMantra, LizLaz revealed that certain individuals allegedly approached her with offers to publicly criticise Kohli or level false allegations against him.

"I was offered money to speak against Virat Kohli so that I would say wrong things and level allegations against him," she reportedly said.

According to reports, LizLaz stated that she refused such offers because she respects Kohli and considers him one of her favourite cricketers. "Some people wanted me to throw shade at him and say things he never did. But why would I do that?" she reportedly added.

'Messi or Ronaldo of Asia'

The influencer also spoke about Kohli's enormous popularity and influence across the globe, describing him as "the Messi or Ronaldo of Asia."

LizLaz said she was surprised by the scale of attention generated by what she described as a small social media interaction.

She also expressed sympathy for Kohli, saying the issue had been blown out of proportion and subjected the former India captain to unnecessary scrutiny.

Despite the trolling and media attention, LizLaz admitted that the controversy brought her increased visibility, including offers for reality shows and brand collaborations.

However, she said she has remained selective about the opportunities she accepts.

Virat Kohli Yet to Comment

Kohli, who remains one of the most-followed athletes in the world on social media, has not publicly commented either on the original Instagram incident or LizLaz's latest claims.

The episode once again highlights the intense scrutiny surrounding celebrity social media activity, especially when it involves figures as globally recognised as Kohli.

Even seemingly minor online interactions often become headline material, generating speculation and viral discourse within minutes.

Fans React Online

The latest revelations have triggered strong reactions online, with many fans praising LizLaz for refusing to participate in what she described as attempts to manufacture controversy around the Indian cricket icon.

Others criticised the culture of social media sensationalism, arguing that harmless online interactions involving celebrities are frequently exaggerated into unnecessary drama.

As discussions continue across platforms, the incident has further underlined both Kohli's unmatched popularity and the relentless spotlight surrounding public figures in the digital age.