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via Imago

via Imago

Hip-hop star and Rap icon Nicki Minaj is now officially a playable character in the iconic “Call of Duty” franchise. Yes, you heard that right! The famous rap star is featured as an in-game operator. Moreover, this inclusion marks the franchise’s first female operator. Minaj is joining the likes of Rap icons like Snoop Dogg and 21 Savage, who already have their own characters inculcated into the game.

This striking surprise has elated fans and critics alike. But amid all the praise and lauding, one familiar name has popped up professing his support and admiration for the 40-year-old female rapper. Guess who? It’s none other than UFC’s ‘Notorious’ star – who has caught the attention of fans with his endorsement of Minaj’s success. So, what’s Conor McGregor saying about this rapper’s remarkable achievement? Let’s find out!

A UFC star’s stamp of approval: Conor McGregor applauds Nicki Minaj

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Within minutes, the news of Nicki Minaj’s “Call of Duty” collaboration spread like wildfire. Her unique feat has definitely landed her in the spotlight. When ‘Notorious’ came across an X tweet that celebrated this collab, he couldn’t hold himself back from penning down a message of appreciation for the female rapper.

Taking to his X handle, the former UFC champ congratulated both the rapper and the game franchise. He labeled his collab as an ‘iconic’ move that may very well pave the way for future collaborations between real-life icons and popular franchises. The ‘Notorious’ UFC star wrote: 

 

However, if you think this is the first time a Hollywood icon/rapper has ventured into the realm of video games – you’re mistaken. Prior to Minaj’s addition to the COD franchise, there have been quite a few Hollywood A-listers who’ve already paved the way for such collaborations. Let’s have a look at some of the most popular names who have also joined the gaming industry.

Is Nicki Minaj the first celebrity to venture into the gaming industry?

If you think that celebrity features in video games are a recent trend – think again. Celebrity appearances in video games trace their roots back to the 1980s. During this era, prominent names such as Mike Tyson, Jackie Chan, and Michael Jackson inked deals with gaming publishers. This tradition has endured and flourished, welcoming a new generation of celebrities. Keanu Reeves, famed for “Cyberpunk 2077,” and Kit Harington of “Game of Thrones” fame are among the contemporary stars who have lent their personas to gaming characters.

 

 

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Kit Harington, who found himself in the shoes of a villain in “Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare,” shared his excitement about portraying a negative role, a departure from his typical roles. Hollywood heavyweight Kevin Spacey, recognized for “House of Cards,” has also left his mark in the Call of Duty series.

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Ice Cube, the versatile rapper-actor, brought his voice to the character of Joseph Bowman in “Call of Duty: Black Ops,” while Gary Oldman, another Hollywood luminary, lent his voice talents to characters in two iterations of the Call of Duty franchise.

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As celebrities continue to converge with the gaming industry, their presence leaves an indelible mark on both realms, shaping a dynamic collaboration that bridges entertainment genres. What do you think? Will we see more celebrities and maybe – even MMA fighters in these games? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!

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