Braden Peters, a 20-year-old American who has garnered attention on social media under the name Clavicular, is promoting extreme and dangerous methods to enhance physical appearance, involving self-inflicted harm. This practice, part of a trending movement known as looksmaxxing, emphasizes the belief that appearance is one of the most important aspects of a man's worth. Peters notably advocates for using a metallic trophy to strike his cheekbones, claiming it will lead to a more masculine appearance through minor fractures.

His provocative methods and ideology have led many to brand him as the new Andrew Tate, a figure notorious for misogynistic comments and controversial viewpoints on masculinity. Both men appear to attract a similar demographic, primarily young males, who are often influenced by their extreme perspectives and unhealthy approaches towards self-image. Peters’ rise to notoriety highlights a concerning trend among youth, where looking a certain way has become synonymous with personal value and social acceptance.

The phenomenon of looksmaxxing, where individuals, especially men, obsessively seek to enhance their appearance through unconventional and oftentimes harmful means, sheds light on broader societal issues relating to body image. Peters’ alarming promotion of violence against oneself to conform to these beauty ideals not only poses immediate physical risks but also reflects deep-rooted problems in how society values masculinity and appearance. As these discussions gain traction, it raises questions about the responsibility of social media platforms in curbing dangerous ideologies that can lead to self-harm among vulnerable individuals.