A WEB3 WHODUNIT!: NFT Collectors Try to Figure Out Who RTFKT’s Mystery Buyer Is After Garga And Herman Narula Say It Wasn’t Them

It’s a Web3 whodunit on the timeline today, with everyone trying to crack the case of who bought RTFKT as a cast of big names gets thrown around. But two names are already X’d off the board after CEO of Yuga Labs Garga  and founder of ImprobableIo Herman Narula, both publicly said it wasn’t them!

On Tuesday, Oregon’s local news outlet The Oregonian reported that Nike quietly sold RTFKT to an unknown buyer back last month, according to reporter Matt Kish.

 

“The RTFKT sale was effective Dec. 16, launching a new chapter for the company and its community,” the company said in a statement. “Nike continues to invest in delivering innovative products and experiences across physical, digital and virtual environments.”

 

Since the report began circulating, the Clone X floor price has surged as NFT collectors speculate on a potential comeback similar to what the Web3 world has seen from projects like Pudgy Penguins and Moonbirds in years past.

At the time of publication, the identity of RTFKT’s new owner remains unknown. However, Garga put rumors to rest this afternoon after speculation spread that Yuga Labs may have been involved.

“we didn't buy RTFKT,” Yuga Labs CEO Garga tweeted. “Love the OG team over there and rooting for the resurrection.”

 

 

Another theory circulating on the timeline pointed to Narula, who tweeted in February 2025 “ Should we buy RTFKT?”

 

 

Narula quickly shut down the rumor on Tuesday, replying simply: “It’s not me!”

 

As the community waits for more informaiton on the acquisition, RTFKT co-Founder Zaptio added to the intrigue by tweeting, “A new future awaits,” alongside an image of 3D modeled Clones.

 

The Gazette will continue to follow the story  as more information about the RTFKT acquisition becomes available. Stay tuned for updates!