What’s The Origin Behind The Slag “I’m Him” Used By The Athletes?
The phrase has been used on several playing surfaces. “I’m Him” is the in-demand catchphrase for those brimming with pride and bravado, whether they are LeBron James or Joe Burrow, playing on Premier League fields or dusty blacktops.
But what does “I’m Him” actually mean? And how did this common phrase spread like wildfire throughout the world of sports?
LeBron: “I don’t give a f*ck what nobody think. I’m him.”
(via @uninterrupted)
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) July 22, 2022
What’s The Origin Behind The Slag “I’m Him” Used By The Athletes?
At first glance, “I’m Him” might not seem to have any meaning. After all, it only has two syllables.
But all that matters is how the phrase is meant to be understood. Being “Him” entails being a dominant character, a blooming flower amid a weed-filled garden. It’s an exhilarating sense of assurance, the kind that only comes from making your adversaries cower in dread.
"I'M HIM." – @JoeyB
Joe Shiesty's confidence is on another level. (via @NFLFilms, @insidetheNFL) pic.twitter.com/BlgaiOnQ1n
— NFL (@NFL) January 25, 2023
Consider Mbappe’s World Cup final performance against Argentina or LeBron’s Game 6 performance against the Celtics in 2012 as examples of sheer supremacy under the brightest of lights.
The “I’m Him” slang word is attributed to well-known rapper Kevin Gates. His Imperial Majesty was referenced in the title of his second album, which was published in 2019.
"What does 'I'm HIM' mean?"
"Did I say that? 😅😅 Sometimes you blackout out there I dunno" – Joe Burrow pic.twitter.com/eaZR77ZrXP
— Faux Joey Brrr (@FauxJeaux) January 25, 2023
“I’m Him” sold 71,422 copies in its first week, propelling it to the No. 4 spot on the U.S. Billboard 200 list. According to the Recording Industry Association of America, the 17-track album has so far moved more than 500,000 copies throughout the country.
The term “I’m Him” has been used since 2019, however the meme only became popular in 2022 among internet users.
"I'M HIM!" 🗣@JaMorant had to remind everybody after his dagger
(via jackhaydencook/IG) pic.twitter.com/DGdTXxifSd
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) January 12, 2022
A big part of that was thanks to YouTuber JiDion, who last year captured a funny exchange between him and a woman at a bowling alley.
The clip predictably went viral, spawning a series of TikToks, many of which included audio from JiDion’s original video.
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