Social media commentator Martins Otse, better known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has stirred fresh reactions online. This time, it is not over a controversy. Instead, it is because of a bold N20 million bet involving football legend Lionel Messi and his lawyer, Deji Adeyanju. As excitement builds ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, VDM has made it clear that he does not believe Argentina will defeat Spain. His confidence has now turned into one of the biggest celebrity football wagers on Nigerian social media.
The final will take place on Sunday, July 19, 2026, with defending champions Argentina facing Spain. Before the match, VDM shared on his Instagram Story that Adeyanju kept calling him to discuss Messi’s chances of winning another World Cup. Rather than continue the debate, he decided to raise the stakes. VDM promised to pay his lawyer N20 million if Argentina wins. However, Adeyanju must pay him the same amount if Spain stops Messi from lifting the trophy. VDM wrote:
“@adeyanjudeji stop calling me about Lionel Messi, HE WILL NOT LIFT THE WORLD CUP. If he does, I will give you N20 million naira, and if he doesn’t, you will give me N20 million naira. (DON’T CALL MY PHONE AGAIN UNTIL AFTER THE FINAL PLEASEEEEE).”
However, Adeyanju did not accept the offer without adding his own condition. In a post on Facebook, the lawyer said money alone was not enough. He challenged VDM to delete both his Instagram and Facebook accounts if Messi and Argentina win the World Cup. At the same time, he agreed to pay the N20 million if Spain comes out victorious. He wrote:
“VDM, I will not do that kind of bet with you. If you want us to bet over Argentina, you will have to agree to delete your Instagram and Facebook accounts if my GOAT lifts the WC, and I agree to send you N20m if we lose the game.”
The exchange has quickly gone viral across social media. Football fans are now discussing both the World Cup final and the unusual wager. While many are backing Messi to win another title, others believe Spain will end Argentina’s dream.
Whatever happens on Sunday, fans will be watching closely to see whether VDM pays N20 million or faces Adeyanju’s social media challenge.
