Payal Viral ‘Dubai MMS’ and Champions Trophy Claims

New Delhi, December 17, 2025: Popular Indian gaming creator Payal Dhare, widely known as Payal Gaming, has recently found herself at the center of a malicious online campaign. Unverified reports and a controversial video, allegedly showing intimate moments, have been circulated on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Telegram. While the claims have caused a massive stir, a thorough review of the footage by fans and digital experts has led to a widespread consensus: the video is a sophisticated AI-generated deepfake designed to exploit her fame.

The ‘Dubai MMS’ Allegations Are Debunked

The controversy was ignited by posts carrying clickbait titles like “Payal Gaming Dubai Leak.” The timing of the claims coincided with Payal’s actual vacation in Dubai, which malicious actors seemingly used to add a layer of “authenticity” to the fabricated narrative.

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Is She the ‘Viral Champions Trophy Girl’?

Beyond the current controversy, many netizens have asked if Payal Gaming is the same person who went viral during the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. The answer is yes.

During the high-stakes semi-final match between India and Australia at the Dubai International Stadium, the camera panned to a female spectator in an India jersey who was casually using her phone. The “mystery girl” instantly became a national sensation, with social media users launching a frantic search for her identity.

It was soon confirmed that the viral face was indeed Payal Dhare. Her appearance during the tournament introduced her to a massive non-gaming audience, making her a household name among cricket fans. Ironically, her increased fame from the Champions Trophy is believed to be one of the reasons she was targeted by bad actors in the recent deepfake incident.

A Call for Digital Safety and Accountability

The targeting of Payal Gaming—who has been recognized by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for her contributions to the gaming industry—has sparked a broader conversation about the safety of women in digital spaces. Her fans have led a massive counter-movement, urging people to stop sharing unverified clips and to report the accounts spreading the deepfake material.

The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by unregulated AI tools. While Payal has remained largely focused on her content and career, the gaming community continues to stand by her, emphasizing that the “real” Payal Gaming is defined by her skill, her awards, and her historic achievements in Indian esports, not by malicious fabricated content.