WATCH: Shocking crocodile stunt lands American influencer in $27,000 trouble

Content Warning: This article contains distressing scenes of animal harassment and blood.

When most people dream of visiting Australia, wrestling a crocodile is hardly on the itinerary.

For one American influencer, that fantasy turned into a viral—and controversial—stunt that has sparked outrage across the nation.

The footage has left wildlife lovers both horrified and concerned about the message it sends.

Mike Holston, known online as 'The Real Tarzann', faced intense backlash after posting a video of himself wrestling a freshwater crocodile in Cape York, Queensland, on 4 September.

The 33-year-old jumped from a boat into shallow water and charged at the crocodile, which had been peacefully basking in the sun along the Lockhart River.

His cameraman captured every moment as Holston ran the frightened animal down, jumped on its back, and wrestled it to the shore.

Blood was visible from a gash on Holston’s arm, yet he appeared unbothered, laughing in the water.

The influencer declared: 'This is what dreams are made of. Ever since I was a kid, I wanted to come to Australia and just look at crocodiles, catch them between my hands, and see them up close.'

Queensland authorities launch investigation

Queensland authorities confirmed an investigation was underway.

'It is a significant offence to interfere with freshwater crocodiles in Queensland, not to mention extremely dangerous,' a spokesperson said.

Offences can attract on-the-spot fines of $2,670 or court-imposed penalties of up to $27,539.

Experts condemn the stunt

Northern Territory crocodile expert Tommy Hayes condemned Holston’s actions, saying they showed 'a complete lack of regard for Australian wildlife and the country as a whole.'

He added: 'Being a self-proclaimed animal lover, then chasing down a clearly very frightened animal is completely uncalled for and disrespectful, and clearly [done] for the [online] clout.'

Hayes called for influencers to face fines, visa cancellations, or strict conditions if allowed to return.

Part of a troubling trend

Holston’s stunt follows another incident in March when a US influencer removed a baby wombat from its mother, prompting public calls for visa cancellation.

Holston had previously spent time with crocodile wrangler Matt Wright, who was later found guilty of interfering in a 2022 helicopter crash investigation.

Community Representation of Crocodiles (CROC) condemned Holston’s actions, reporting his post to the Queensland Government multiple times.

The organisation said promoting such behaviour on social media 'sets a dangerous precedent' and noted the penalties were minimal compared with the revenue these accounts generate.

Public reaction divided

Comments on the video showed some praising Holston, but many expressed disgust.

'Why do that to them though? I don’t get it. Leave them alone. It’s kind of sad you’re coming up into their safe space it’s not right,' one comment read.

'This is completely useless and dangerous for the crocodile. Freshwater crocodile suffers from stress and could die by stress,' another added.

Responsible wildlife viewing in Australia—Observe animals from a safe, respectful distance—Never chase, handle, or interfere with native wildlife—Report wildlife harassment to local authorities—Choose licensed tour operators for close encounters—Remember that social media likes aren’t worth animal suffering or legal consequences

Questions over influencer responsibility

PETA described Holston’s past content as 'a depraved attempt to boost his platform,' noting he regularly provoked animals and engaged in hazardous stunts.

The incident raises questions about the responsibility that comes with massive social media influence, particularly when it comes to wildlife and conservation messaging.

Authorities have not yet charged Holston, and he has not publicly addressed the backlash.

Queensland’s environment department confirmed the investigation was ongoing, signalling that consequences are likely.

The incident underscores that Australian wildlife protection laws apply to all visitors, regardless of online fame or follower count.

Will this incident teach influencers that Australia’s wildlife laws must be respected, or will viral fame continue to put vulnerable species at risk?