Brazzers, a media network that specialises in internet porn movies, wants to get into the video game scene. But not by making a game. They want to sponsor fighting game players and fighting game events.
Over on the Twitter feed of Brazzer's director of special events, Rob Steele, some fighting game fans are going bananas. There is talk of history being made. Most people are posting in ALL CAPS they're so excited. Steele, and his bosses at Brazzers, seem to have struck a rich vein of support.
Brazzers will be looking to sponsor not just players (such as popular community figure LI Joe, who is already on board), but hold their own events as well.
The timing couldn't be more interesting, given it's been only a month since elements of the FGC were accused of sexual harassment against female players, a story that brought out both the best and the worst in the passionate scene.
To be clear, this is so far one company announcing vague plans. It's not like Brazzers is taking over, or that those supporting the move are in any way representative of the entire community.
Helping keep things in perspective, and also offering a taste of the obstacles such sponsorship will have to overcome, Tom Cannon, a co-founder of the popular EVO tournament, has already said "To be super clear, there will never be a reference to this particular sponsor at Evo, in any way, shape, or form."
The Late Nite Show With LI Joe - Rob Steele from BRAZZERS tonight! [Twitch]