Robbie Williams sent his followers into a state of amused confusion this week after sharing an extraordinary social media post that proposed an unlikely sporting contest between legendary boybands.
The Bizarre Instagram Post That Started It All
The 51-year-old Let Me Entertain You singer took to his official Instagram account on Monday to publish a lengthy statement spread across nine separate images. In what can only be described as an unexpected thought experiment, Williams called for attention from all boyband members worldwide as he pondered what would happen if there was a Ryder Cup-style tournament for pop groups.
Williams revealed the inspiration came from his algorithm showing him a video of Scottish streamer and comedian Limmy being asked who would win in a fight between East 17 and Take That. This seemingly innocent query sparked an elaborate analysis from the former Take That star, who wrote: 'It got me thinking across all of boy-band-land, who's the hardest individual? Who's the most game? Which group is the toughest unit?'
Breaking Down The Boyband Battle
Williams began his assessment by comparing his former Take That bandmates with their East 17 rivals. He provided detailed analysis of each member's fighting capabilities, starting with Howard Donald. 'Howard is bricks,' Williams claimed. 'I was on Human Growth Hormone and I still couldn't beat Howard in an Arm Wrestle. I didn't lose though. It was draw BUT if it was the Olympics I'd have been disqualified.'
He continued his assessment of Take That, describing Jason Orange as 'relentless; strong and awkward' and revealing that Gary Barlow was 'the UK's youngest black belt.' Williams even expressed surprise at his own physical attributes within the group, noting: 'And unbelievably, I'm Take That's tallest member. Yes... cue the member jokes. But honestly I was shocked too. I'm also a lump. Maybe a useless lump, but still a lump.'
In his imagined fight card pitting Howard Donald against East 17's Tony Mortimer, Williams gave the victory to his former bandmate: 'Howard all day. Tony did some martial arts (I think), but Howard was a panel beater by day. Ballroom dancer by night. That's man-strength + lithe dexterity. And he's kept his physique. Howard for the win.'
International Boyband Showdown
The pop star's bizarre post expanded to imagine a full-scale 'Boyband Ryder Cup Death Match' between European and American groups. He compared American acts like New Kids On The Block, 98 Degrees and Boyz II Men before turning his attention to European contenders.
Williams showed particular confidence in Irish group Boyzone, telling fans he'd 'set the members of Boyzone on any other boyband.' He boldly declared: 'Boyzone would beat Take That in a fight - no offence Westlife, I love you - but Boyzone would also batter you.' However, he added the crucial caveat that they would only stand a chance if Brian McFadden - who quit Westlife in 2004 - rejoined the fray.
Williams revealed he had already taken practical steps towards making his fantasy tournament a reality, having rung Blue's Anthony Costa who was apparently 'keen for the job.' He also mentioned Lee Ryan while noting that Simon Webbe would 'handle business.'
Fan Reactions and Recent Revelations
The unusual post prompted hilarious responses from Williams' followers, with one fan commenting: 'I am not sure if this is a midlife crisis or some kind of breakdown but either way please make it happen and I'd like to nominate some charities you can raise money for when you step into the ring!'
Another bewildered follower wrote: 'Think i just woke up and read my own fever dream,' while a third admitted: 'You have no idea how much I love it when you post these nutty ideas. Absolutely made my day.'
Williams concluded his lengthy musing by clarifying his intentions: 'Now all we need is official confirmation from every boyband member worldwide. And listen, this isn't about violence. It's about legacy. It's about honour. It's about settling the arguments that nobody was having until I started them.'
He finished with a relatable domestic note, revealing: 'History will decide. Or it won't because this is completely imaginary and my wife has already asked me twice why I'm still typing.'
This amusing social media moment comes after Williams recently made headlines for confessing to a rather disgusting act he performs on stage during concerts. Speaking to The Sun earlier this month, the singer admitted: 'I have done public farts and I do quite a few on stage and they are, for I would say about five seconds, one of life's greatest pleasures.'
In more concerning news, Williams also revealed his fears that weight loss jabs are affecting his eyesight. The star said his vision has become increasingly blurry in recent months while using Mounjaro, admitting it's now affecting him during performances. He has even struggled to see people's faces during emotional moments in his live shows.
Williams explained he first noticed something was wrong when he attended an American football game and couldn't make out individual players, describing them as 'just shapes on the field.' After visiting an optician and being prescribed new glasses, the singer revealed: 'I was quite an early adapter of the jabs but what I'm also noticing is that my eyesight's not very good. It's been blurry for a while now, and it's only getting worse. I don't believe it's age; I believe it's the jabs.'
