Social media influencer known as 'Final Boss' has ignited fury after sharing a video of himself posing with a sedated cheetah during a trip to Phuket, Thailand. The clip, which quickly went viral, shows the Ibiza-based personality stroking the drugged big cat while laughing with friends.
Animal rights activists have condemned the video, calling it "exploitative and cruel". Experts warn that sedating wild animals for tourist interactions can cause severe stress and long-term health issues.
Backlash from Activists and Followers
The footage sparked immediate outrage online, with users accusing Final Boss of promoting unethical wildlife tourism. One commenter wrote: "This is not entertainment—it's animal abuse." Others demanded that authorities investigate the incident.
Wildlife conservation groups have urged social media platforms to remove such content, arguing it encourages harmful practices. "These videos normalize the exploitation of endangered species," said a spokesperson for a leading animal welfare organisation.
Legal Implications
Thai law prohibits the mistreatment of protected animals, and offenders can face hefty fines or imprisonment. However, enforcement remains inconsistent in tourist-heavy areas like Phuket.
Local officials have yet to comment on whether Final Boss will face repercussions, but the incident has reignited debates about wildlife tourism regulations.
