ShareOfVoice.ai recently ventured into cutting-edge AI-driven avatar technology, transforming Mounir Biba’s iconic Breaking moves into animated vignettes. Inspired by the potential of these visuals, ShareOfVoice.ai connected with the legendary 13-time world champion and coach of the Chinese Breaking Team, who proudly led his team to a Bronze medal at Paris 2024. In an exclusive interview conducted in French, Biba shared his insights on Breaking’s journey from a cultural movement to a recognised sport, underscoring its educational and social impact.
Reflecting on Breaking’s evolution, Biba traced its origins as an underground dance movement to its current status as a global sport, highlighting its unique power to unite communities worldwide. "On est d'abord une culture issue d'abord bien enracinée dans la danse, et ensuite on devient, pour ainsi dire, un sport qui fait partie des programmes éducatifs à travers le monde, favorisant un rapprochement social avec les autres," he explained. ("We start as a culture rooted in dance, and then we become, so to speak, a sport that’s part of educational programmes worldwide, fostering a sense of social closeness across continents.")
Biba also discussed the challenges Breaking athletes face as they professionalise, citing the financial demands as a barrier compared to other sports. As a pivotal figure in securing sponsorship deals, Biba has helped bring Breaking into the mainstream sports arena, opening up new professional pathways for dancers. "Pour beaucoup, c’est la première fois qu’ils signent des contrats, marquant ainsi le passage de l’artiste à l’athlète professionnel," he noted. ("For many, it’s the first time they’re signing contracts, marking the transition from artist to professional athlete.")
Breaking’s Olympic Journey
Reflecting on Breaking’s Olympic debut, Biba recounted his dedication to the project, which required him to step away from other commitments for six months. He expressed hope for future innovations in the sport, including the potential revival of team competitions to add an extra layer of excitement. Breaking is also set to feature at the Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, Senegal, further expanding its reach on the world stage.
Championing Inclusivity
Inclusivity remains central to Biba’s vision for Breaking. As one of the few sports where men and women compete side by side, he sees it as an arena that promotes equality and enriches the competitive experience. "Le Breaking célèbre la diversité et l’inclusion, offrant une scène où hommes et femmes peuvent montrer leurs talents sur un pied d’égalité," Biba added. ("Breaking celebrates diversity and inclusion, providing a stage where men and women showcase their talents on equal footing.")
A Deep Dive into Social Media Insights
Using Audiense technology, ShareOfVoice.ai conducted a social media analysis to gauge global engagement with Breaking and Hip Hop Dance. The findings revealed a substantial audience, particularly in Asia, where these urban DanceSports resonate strongly with young people and intersect with interests in online gaming, esports, and Latin dance music. Data from over 200 million users showed that English, Spanish, and Hindi are the most common languages in discussions on Meta platforms, underscoring the sport’s global reach and appeal.
Pushing the Boundaries of Dance with AI
AI and technologies hold immense potential for Breaking’s evolution. Through precise motion capture, virtual choreography, and fresh ways for audiences to engage, these advancements enable both cultural preservation and creative innovation. AI-powered tools can help Breaking bridge cultures, expand its reach, and deepen its global impact.
