'Rigged'? BABYMONSTER's Defeat To ILLIT Sparks Controversy
Fans were left in a state of bewilderment following the unexpected outcome of BABYMONSTER's performance on "M Countdown." Despite initial indications favoring the group, the final results revealed a surprising turn of events.
The anticipation was palpable as BABYMONSTER showcased their prowess with a captivating rendition of their hit track "Sheesh" on the music show. The members' remarkable talent, striking visuals, and magnetic stage presence garnered widespread acclaim from viewers.
But why did they lose?
BABYMONSTER's Pre-Show Predictions, Rivalry with ILLIT
The showdown for the top spot intensified as BABYMONSTER and ILLIT, both burgeoning rookie groups, vied for the coveted trophy.
Ahead of the broadcast, predictions from the X account KshowAnalysis hinted at a neck-and-neck competition between the two contenders.
READ ALSO: Why Doesn't BABYMONSTER Appear in Music Shows & Programs? Here Are the Reasons
While ILLIT showcased strength in digital metrics, BABYMONSTER surged ahead in pre-voting and social media engagement, notably in music video views.
Unexpected Turn of Events
Despite maintaining a commanding lead during live voting, with an impressive 92% support, BABYMONSTER faced a stunning defeat as ILLIT clinched victory with 6676 points, surpassing BABYMONSTER's 5371 points.
✅ 240418 - M COUNTDOWN - FINAL#ILLIT / #BABYMONSTER
— KPOP Music Show Analysis (@KshowAnalysis) April 18, 2024
Try to win Live Voting by a big gap and hope your Broadcast and SNS Shorts scores are higher than your opponent's. Fighting! ✊ pic.twitter.com/bR5zpZfK81
(Photo : Twitter)
The discrepancy was particularly evident in the digital points category, which experienced a substantial drop from the initial projections, raising eyebrows among fans and industry observers alike.
✅ 240418 - M COUNTDOWN - FINAL#ILLIT / #BABYMONSTER
— KPOP Music Show Analysis (@KshowAnalysis) April 18, 2024
Try to win Live Voting by a big gap and hope your Broadcast and SNS Shorts scores are higher than your opponent's. Fighting! ✊ pic.twitter.com/bR5zpZfK81
How Fans Reacted To BABYMONSTER's Defeat To ILLIT
BABYMONSTER fans expressed their dismay and confusion over the sudden shift. Some lamented the group's early departure from the show, indicating a sense of resignation about their chances of winning.
they fcking knew already that they wont win https://t.co/2B5rJJvrDU pic.twitter.com/5sbCCxSWt8
— JACY 🖤 (@ahyeoniv3rse) April 18, 2024
all the other predictions being true except the digitals. rigged ass show. pic.twitter.com/hJfbLcPZXh
— a is tannies lover ⁷ 💜🥢 (@roravines) April 18, 2024
a WHOLE 1k of our digital score just disappearing wtf.... https://t.co/yDybQFqE5o
— 's 🎀 (@jnkdomination) April 18, 2024
You can not convince me that 1000+ digital score for BABYMONSTERS just got erased just like that, unless it's not Hybe manipulation damn. https://t.co/rEjuu3wEZP
— •` (@ladlovesick) April 18, 2024
babymonster’s score for digital went down? I WONDER WHY https://t.co/40ivEOt5cA pic.twitter.com/83wWuPRxjq
— 𝙡𝙞𝙨𝙖’𝙨 ♪ (@moon_bliink) April 18, 2024
Speculation arose regarding the notable decrease in BABYMONSTER's digital score, especially considering the accuracy of prior predictions.
A concerned fan remarked:
"The saddest part of all this is BABYMONSTER knew they won't win so they went home early. That just broke my heart."
Others echoed sentiments of surprise and disappointment, questioning the integrity of the final results given the discrepancies in scoring.
While ILLIT celebrates their triumph with the track "Magnetic," BABYMONSTER's loss has left fans and observers puzzled.
The scrutiny over digital points and their impact on overall rankings continues to fuel discussions within the K-pop community.
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: What Is the Meaning of BABYMONSTER? Group Explains Story Behind Name
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Written by Cassidy Jones.
