OG professional skateboarder Tony Manfre is not happy about gambling companies becoming part of skateboarding, and he did not hold back while sharing his opinion.
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In a recent video, Manfre called out Stake after seeing the company become more involved in skateboarding.
He said he believes gambling sponsorships have no place in the scene and criticized those who are accepting them.
"Skateboarding is fucking cooked dude, we are allowing people getting away with gambling sponsors," Manfre said. "Like yeah dude, fucking cool. Not cool!"
After making his point, Manfre explained why he feels so strongly about the issue.
He talked about the serious consequences gambling addiction can have and said people should understand that it is much more than just placing bets online.
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According to what Manfre read online, gambling addiction can damage relationships, create financial problems, lead to legal trouble, hurt a person's health, affect work performance, and in some cases even contribute to suicidal thoughts.
He said these risks should not be ignored, especially when gambling companies are being promoted to younger audiences through skateboarding.
He ended his comments with an emotional message directed at those involved with bringing gambling sponsors into skateboarding.
"You guys deserve to get punched in the face. I don't advocate for that, but if anybody deserves it, you do. Peace."
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Manfre's comments have added to the ongoing conversation about gambling companies entering skateboarding.
While some people see sponsorships as another source of financial support for skaters and events, others believe promoting gambling goes against what skateboarding has always stood for and could have harmful effects on younger fans who look up to professional skaters.
Gambling sponsorships are here to stay due to the huge backing of Street League Skateboarding, and discussions like this are likely to continue, with skaters across the community sharing different opinions about where the line should be drawn.
Manfre Posted:
"@stake wtf?!"