Some heroes come in capes, while others wear unique clock chains and use their influence to uplift women’s sports.

Upon learning that gymnast Jordan Chiles had lost her bronze medal, Flavor Flav, a key supporter of athletes at the 2024 Paris Olympics, felt compelled to express his solidarity.

“Winning is one of the greatest feelings athletes can experience, you feel me?” Flavor Flav, 65, shared with YSL News on Wednesday. “I’m sure Jordan Chiles and anyone else who’s faced that knows how devastating it can be.”

Chiles drew attention following the Court of Arbitration for Sport’s decision that the judges incorrectly approved a review that enhanced her score, placing her ahead of Romania’s Ana Barbosu, according to YSL News’s Tom Schad. Flav and many other fans were left disappointed by the ruling after celebrating Chiles’ accomplishments.

In a swift move, Flav teamed up with his clockmaker Kellz to fashion a distinct bronze-studded version of his iconic accessory. He emphasized that the piece isn’t meant to replace the medal but rather to convey deep respect for her abilities.

“The bronze clock I created for Jordan Chiles symbolizes love, appreciation, and recognition for her talent,” Flav explained. “That young lady performed exceptionally well for that medal and she truly deserved it.”

Champion of women’s sports

Flavor Flav, whose real name is William Jonathan Drayton Jr., has long been an outspoken supporter of women’s achievements during the Olympics. Beyond championing Chiles, he partnered with Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian to help pay rent for Team USA discus thrower Veronica Fraley. He has also promoted many online fundraisers for other Olympians seeking financial support to pursue their athletic aspirations.

This commitment is especially evident with his financial assistance to the USA Women’s Polo Team. Though they finished fourth at the Olympics, Flav praised captain Maggie Steffens and goalie Ashleigh Johnson for their remarkable journey. He remains dedicated to supporting them after signing a five-year sponsorship with both men’s and women’s national teams.

“I’m determined to keep the focus on water polo even when these athletes aren’t competing. It’s a challenging sport,” he noted. “Water polo doesn’t get the same recognition as sports like basketball or soccer, so through my influence, I’m aiming to raise its profile.”

Dressed in patriotic colors, Flav’s vibrant energy was clear as he cheered on athletes in the stands alongside fans like Guy Fieri and First Lady Jill Biden.

“During those games, my voice was ringing out like crazy,” Flav recalled. “I was there to motivate them; these girls earned their gold medals three consecutive years. That’s not an easy feat, and I was pushing for that fourth gold medal.”

Footage from the 1980s and 90s captures Flav as one of hip-hop’s legendary hypemen, energizing the crowds during Public Enemy performances. Years later, he experienced that same thrill while watching incredible athletes in the Paris sports venues.

“Experiencing the Olympics for the first time filled me with excitement, similar to what my fans feel during my performances,” Flav expressed.

Flav hopes his actions motivate other celebrities to become more involved in supporting Olympic athletes: “I believe my voice has inspired many celebrities to step up and take action, like sponsoring an Olympic team,” he remarked.

Flav’s personal journey to Paris

Amidst various online rumors, Flav clarified that he personally covered the costs for his trip to Paris, which he described as “incredible,” “thrilling,” and “meaningful.”

“I have always wanted to experience what it feels like to be at the Olympics, as my only experience was watching it on TV,” he shared. “This was the first time in my life that I got to be there and witness it all firsthand.”

He is excited about the future of the women’s water polo team as the Olympics prepares to return to Los Angeles in 2028.

“I’m really proud of them because I believe they will come back strong and dominate. These women hardly lose; they are fierce competitors. They truly excel and achieve great victories.”