Young Hustlers Duo Claim Idea Theft in Potentially Groundbreaking Streaming Lawsuit July 9, 2025 – In what could become one of the most talked-about legal battles in the streaming world,Rio Appling and Derelle “Shorty Mack” Owens —hosts of the Hustlers Academy Podcast—are allegedly preparing to file a lawsuit against viral streamer Kai Cenat for reportedly copying their original concept: an educational platform for aspiring streamers called “Streamers University.”
According to statements made on an early 2024 episode on Young Hustlers Podcast, Appling and Mack had publicly announced their plans to launch an academy designed to teach young creators how to stream, game, podcast, and build their personal brands. The program, they said, would be a comprehensive guide to navigating the digital entertainment space and was aimed at underserved communities looking to break into the industry.
Fast-forward to mid-2025, and Kai Cenat—one of the biggest names in live streaming—recently unveiled a similarly branded initiative, also called “Streamers University,” aimed at educating future content creators. This announcement has prompted serious allegations from the Young Hustlers team, who claim the concept was lifted directly from their platform without credit or collaboration.
Legal Action in Motion Sources close to Appling and Mack claim the duo has “lawyered up” and is seriously considering legal action. Allegedly, they have compiled what they believe is compelling evidence showing a timeline of when their idea was introduced, including podcast recordings, pitch decks, and communications sent to industry insiders months before Kai Cenat’s announcement.
While no official lawsuit has been filed as of yet, insiders say the legal team representing Appling and Mack is actively exploring options to seek damages, and possibly a cease and desist regarding the use of the name and concept. “This isn’t just about an idea,” one source familiar with the situation said. “It’s about recognition, credit, and protecting the vision of two Black entrepreneurs who were trying to uplift their community through streaming education.”
If these allegations hold up in court, this case could set a major precedent for intellectual property in the streaming and content creation world—a space where ideas are often shared, borrowed, and sometimes appropriated without legal consequences. Kai Cenat, known for his viral content and Twitch dominance, has not responded publicly to the accusations. His fans have remained loyal, but the Internet is now buzzing with debates over who really came up with the idea first—and whether Cenat’s version was inspired, coincidental, or something more calculated.
Meanwhile @The Hustlers Academy Podcastlive a new platform brand—continues to grow in audience and influence. Appling and Mack remain focused on their mission to educate and empower the next generation of digital creators, lawsuit or not. As of now, the world watches and waits. Will this turn into a high-profile courtroom battle? Or will it be resolved behind closed doors? One thing is certain: if the Young Hustlers have the receipts they claim to have, this could be one of the biggest IP shakeups in the history of online content.
Get your popcorn ready.
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