By Miller Rogers-Tetrick
HBO’s hit series “Heated Rivalry” took social media by storm and is now a topic of conversation in popular media.
Evidence of the show’s popularity reached the University of Maryland campus on Feb. 14, when Twisted Terps, an on-campus event organization, hosted a look-alike contest on McKeldin Mall. Students competed to be selected as look-alikes of characters Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov.
The show, now a global sensation, has played a role in events such as the 2026 Winter Olympics and Saturday Night Live. Its characters and relevance have made it one of the most successful juggernauts in the industry in recent history, reaching an average of 10.6 million viewers per episode in the U.S., according to Warner Bros. Discovery.
Whether they resembled the characters or just wanted to share their love for the show, contestants gave their best impressions and speeches about their connection to the series.
For roommates Conor Kane, a junior physics and astronomy double-major, and Juergen Borkman, a senior history major, being recognized as the show’s duo is a common occurrence.
Kane said he often gets stopped by strangers when he is with his roommate.
“Everywhere he goes, he gets like, ‘Oh my gosh, you look like [Rozanov] or the guy from Challengers,” Kane said, referring to Borkman.
Even though Borkman has yet to watch the show, his twin sister urged him to compete in the contest, and he recognizes the show’s impact on hockey.
“I think it’s good for the game. I think it’s getting a lot of people into it,” Borkman said. “I remember seeing that people from the show [were] getting reached out to from athletes, so I think it’s been great.”
It not only provides a safe space for LGBTQ+ athletes’ stories but also demonstrates the importance of uplifting stories of love and acceptance, which “Heated Rivalry” represents.
For Brandon Bozas, a sophomore architecture and real estate and built environment double major, participating was a last-minute decision.
Even though Bozas lost, he still gave his best impressions and knowledge of his French-speaking abilities, a language spoken by Hollander in the show.
In order to select the winners, contestants lined up and audience members were instructed to yell, cheer and applaud for their favorites.
Kane and Borkman came out victorious as Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov, respectively, gaining praise from other attendees.
Featured Image: Winners of the “Heated Rivalry,” Conor Kane, a junior physics and astronomy double-major, and Juergen Borkman, a senior history major, on Feb. 14, 2026. Photo by Miller Rogers-Tetrick.