Karl Jobst Net Worth, Defamation Case, YouTube Career & What’s Next After Billy Mitchell Verdict
Karl Jobst in 2025 finds himself at the center of a major legal and gaming community controversy, following the conclusion of a high-profile defamation case filed by Donkey Kong champion Billy Mitchell. Known for his deep dives into video game history, speedrunning scandals, and exposés on cheating, Jobst’s name has become synonymous with investigative gaming journalism on YouTube. But this year, the headlines aren’t about the subjects of his videos—they’re about him.
Here is the latest on Karl Jobst, his career, and where things stand in 2025.
Who is Karl Jobst?
Karl Jobst is an Australian YouTuber and investigative content creator known for exposing cheating and fraud in the competitive gaming world.
A former speedrunner himself, Jobst gained massive popularity for his detailed documentary-style videos covering controversial figures in gaming, such as Todd Rogers and Billy Mitchell. His videos often involve deep research, public records, interviews, and data analysis—making him a respected, though polarizing, voice in the retro and speedrunning communities.
He has also exposed fraudulent world records, manipulated score submissions, and emulation abuses in leaderboard-based gaming.
What happened with Karl Jobst and Billy Mitchell?
In 2025, Karl Jobst lost a major defamation case brought by Billy Mitchell, who claimed Jobst’s YouTube content damaged his reputation.
The Australian court ruled in favor of Mitchell on April 1, 2025, concluding that several of Jobst’s statements in videos about Mitchell’s gaming achievements were defamatory and not adequately substantiated. The court found that Jobst had implied Mitchell had “fraudulently achieved” his arcade records and manipulated evidence—statements that were ruled harmful and unprotected by fair comment.
Jobst was ordered to pay damages, the exact amount of which has not been publicly disclosed, but sources suggest it could be a significant financial blow.
What does this mean for Karl Jobst’s career?
Despite the legal setback, Karl Jobst remains active on YouTube and within the gaming community, although his tone and approach may evolve.
In a brief response following the verdict, Jobst expressed disappointment and warned that the ruling could have a chilling effect on investigative creators. He has not indicated any intention to shut down his channel, but the case has sparked wider discussions about free speech, fair use, and legal risk in online journalism.
Many in the gaming and YouTube communities have rallied behind Jobst, viewing the case as a potential overreach that could threaten independent reporting.
What is Karl Jobst’s net worth in 2025?
Karl Jobst’s estimated net worth in 2025 is around $500,000.
Most of his income comes from YouTube ad revenue, Patreon supporters, and sponsorships. His long-form investigative videos regularly receive hundreds of thousands to millions of views, giving him a steady monetization stream.
However, the outcome of the lawsuit and potential damages may impact his financial future, depending on whether he appeals or settles additional claims.
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