Noah Lyles reveals how he used IShowSpeed race to build anticipation for showdown with NFL star Tyreek Hill

When Noah Lyles challenged NFL star Tyreek Hill to a race, the sports world erupted. Social media buzzed with debates over who would win and whether a track athlete’s speed could outshine an NFL player’s explosiveness. While the back-and-forth remained hypothetical, the Gods of Speed™ Influencer Tournament presents a unique opportunity to turn this fantasy into reality.

The rivalry between track and NFL athletes is more than just playful banter. It reflects a deeper curiosity among fans about the different types of speed these athletes bring to the table. Track stars like Lyles are masters of linear speed, while NFL players like Hill excel in quick, game-changing sprints. The Gods of Speed™ is uniquely positioned to host these types of matchups in a competitive and entertaining format.

This announcement comes after Lyles recently competed in a race against YouTube personality IShowSpeed, whose real name is Darren Jason Watkins Jr., adding even more buzz to what could be one of the most thrilling athletic events of the year.

The rivalry between Lyles and Hill has been steadily building, with Hill confidently claiming that his NFL-honed speed could outmatch the Olympic gold medalist. Lyles, however, has consistently brushed off these assertions, maintaining that his world-class sprinting abilities remain unmatched.

Speaking on a recent episode of Beyond The Record, Lyles shared insights into his approach during the race with IShowSpeed, explaining that he intentionally held back to heighten anticipation for the upcoming showdown with Hill.

“If I finished the race by beating [Speed] so badly, nobody’s going to want to see a rematch. That’s what they expect. And you know what? I already knew the headline was going to be ‘Noah vs. Tyreek Hill,’” Lyles said, emphasizing his strategy.

The reigning 100m world champion also teased fans about the imminent announcement of the race. “We’ve got some news coming. You’re definitely going to want to stick around for the next few episodes. I promise you, we’ve got something good. We’re putting in the spices now. The pot has been on, and the water’s been boiled,” he said, building excitement for what promises to be a spectacular event.

On the other side, Hill remains unshaken. After witnessing IShowSpeed hold his own against Lyles, the NFL star expressed renewed confidence and continued to engage in spirited banter on social media, keeping fans entertained and invested.

While the specifics of the race—including its date and location—are still under wraps, the buildup has already captured global attention. Fans eagerly await the moment when Hill’s raw NFL speed will be tested against the precision and explosive power of a world-class sprinter.

The showdown is shaping up to be a defining moment for both athletes, combining the worlds of football and track and field in an unforgettable clash.