Russell Okung's Bitball league set to pay players in Bitcoin

Retired NFL player Russell Okung has launched a flag football league called Bitball, where players will be paid in Bitcoin (CRYPTO:BTC).

Okung, known for taking part of his 2020 NFL salary in Bitcoin, explaining that Bitball aims to eliminate intermediaries and create wealth for athletes.

“No more middlemen taking their cuts or making backdoor deals,” he stated, emphasising that the league promotes “pure sport and pure Bitcoin.”

Okung developed the idea after leaving the NFL and failing to persuade league officials of Bitcoin’s potential benefits.

The inaugural Bitball game will take place on December 10 at Al Nahyan Stadium in Abu Dhabi, featuring 24 professional players.

Ticket holders for Bitcoin conferences can attend for free.

Okung's Bitcoin advocacy started in 2020 when he received half of his $13 million salary, about 240 BTC, in the cryptocurrency.

Today, that investment would be valued at around $21 million.

“I didn't do this ‘Pay me in Bitcoin’ thing to trade it in for dollars,” he stated, reaffirming his commitment to holding his Bitcoin.

Instead, he views Bitcoin as a means to secure his family’s financial future and contribute to broader value creation.

"Over a four-year horizon, Bitcoin generally goes up," noted Russell Okung, expressing confidence in Bitcoin's long-term potential despite market volatility.

He highlighted that the recent support from public figures, including Donald Trump speaking at a Bitcoin conference, signals increased legitimacy for the crypto community.

"If nobody else is competitive enough to do it, then I'll do it," stated Russell Okung, emphasising his proactive approach toward Bitcoin adoption in sports.

At the time of reporting, the Bitcoin price was $87,500.35.