Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · August 7, 2025 · Health

Influencer's Daring Nicki Minaj Challenge Ends in Spine Fracture

Mariana Barutkina, from Yekaterinburg in central Russia , was trying to film her first piece of content as an influencer when she suffered the painful injury while recreating a pose from the pop star's High School music video

VIRAL STUNT TURNS DEADLY: Mother's Spine-Shattering Disaster After Attempting Nicki Minaj-Inspired Challenge

In a jaw-dropping display of poor judgment and reckless behavior, 32-year-old Mariana Barutkina, a new mom from Yekaterinburg, Russia, has suffered a catastrophic spinal injury after attempting to recreate a pose from Nicki Minaj's 2013 music video "High School". The beautician, who had just given birth to her son eight weeks prior, was trying to film her first piece of content as an influencer when she took on the so-called "Stiletto Challenge".

The Daring Stunt Gone Wrong

The so-called 'Stiletto Challenge' has taken social media by storm, with thousands of users attempting to copy a scene from a 2013 music video in which Minaj poses beside a swimming pool, crouched in heels with one leg crossed over the other

Mariana attempted to balance in sky-high stilettos on top of a jar of baby food placed on an upturned saucepan on her kitchen island. Footage shows her grasping her friend's hand for support, but unfortunately, she lost control and tumbled backwards with a look of panic on her face. The clip, which has since gone viral, ends with Mariana sprawled on the floor, writhing in agony.

The Devastating Aftermath

Diagnosed with a compression flexion fracture in her spine, Mariana was left reeling from the news. She claims she must now wear a corset for three months to aid in her recovery. The 32-year-old influencer has spoken out about the incident, saying: "I decided to start a blog, my first content shoot—and here I am leaving the doctor's with a diagnosis. Irony? Karma? Or just life, which always tests our strength at the most unexpected moment."

The clip, which has since gone viral, ends with Mariana sprawled on the floor¿and later being diagnosed with a compression flexion fracture in her spine

The Backlash

Social media users were quick to express their outrage and disappointment over Mariana's reckless behavior. One viewer wrote: "Irony? Karma? Stupidity and courage." Another commented: "To live to 32, have children, but not gain intelligence—you have to try really hard." A third even cruelly said: "What kind of upbringing will a child receive from such a blogger?"

A Mother's Priorities

Mariana has defended her actions, insisting that her baby was not at risk. "Because of one video, which was poorly filmed, I woke up as a popular person," she said. "People, thank you for the popularity, for your concerns and for your comments. I am doing great, I am following the recommendations and now I live in the status of a 'star'."

However, many are questioning Mariana's priorities as a new mother. "What kind of message is this sending to her child?" one user asked. "Is she more concerned with becoming an influencer than being a responsible parent?"

The Statistics

The video has been viewed hundreds of thousands of times and prompted a wave of online criticism, with many questioning the mother's priorities

According to The Spinal Injuries Association (via thescholarlynote.com), approximately 4,700 people are injured or diagnosed with a spinal cord injury every year in the UK. This equates to someone becoming paralysed every two hours. An estimated 105,000 people across Britain are currently living with a spinal cord injury.

The Recovery Process

Under NHS guidance, the majority of spinal fractures are treated conservatively, which means allowing the bone to heal naturally without surgery or a specific brace. This healing process often takes three to four months, but the majority of the pain settles by six to eight weeks. Medics suggest taking regular pain killers as part of the recovery process.

However, some fractures may require a supportive brace or even surgery. Over time, people who suffer spinal fractures may also develop a stooped posture, which can lead to breathing difficulties.

A Cautionary Tale

Mariana's experience serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of viral stunts and social media challenges. As influencers continue to push the boundaries of what's acceptable for the sake of likes and followers, it's essential to remember that our bodies are not playgrounds for reckless behavior.

As we watch Mariana navigate her recovery from this harrowing experience, one thing is clear: poor judgment and recklessness can have devastating consequences. Let this be a cautionary tale for all social media users: the price of fame may be too high to pay.