'Aura' battles leap from social media to Latin America streets
"Aura Battles" – a new viral trend among young people in which two individuals face off in public spaces, with charisma and style the deciding factor. Leer más
In Mexico City, two teenagers engaged in an "aura farming" battle, a phenomenon that originated on social media and has now moved into the streets of Latin America. Carlos Irving Quintana, a 14-year-old with purple hair, impressed the crowd with his recreation of Cristiano Ronaldo's "Siuuu" goal celebration. His opponent used the viral "mewing" trend, pointing at their jawline to highlight their defined features.
The term "aura" refers to a person's style or attitude, with "100% aura" being the highest compliment. Participants, mostly aged between 14 and 20, competed by referencing as many viral memes and videos as possible. The matches were judged on the contestants' ability to showcase their best moves, expressions, and confidence. Kaled Rosales Salazar, the winner of the recent Mexico City edition, dressed in red Cars-themed Lightning McQueen shorts and clogs, mimicking lassoing his opponent with a giant white sandal.
The organizer, Aldhir González, praised the young winner's potential. In Argentina, similar contests have gained popularity, even influencing football clubs. However, the contests have also drawn criticism from older generations who view them as a dilution of popular culture. Venezuelan psychologist María Eugenia Tovar defended the battles, stating they can foster in-person interactions for teenagers.
The winner of the Mexico City battle received 3,000 pesos as prize money, and the ultimate reward in Argentina is being deemed as having "infinite aura."
Written by urgent.news from Buenos Aires Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
