In a whirlwind of drama, heartbreak, and high-stakes competition, Love Island Games has once again proven to be a rollercoaster of emotions. Kendall Washington, a familiar face from Love Island USA Season 6, opened up to Us Weekly on October 2, 2025, just days after a shocking elimination left him separated from his partner, Garbi Denteh. The duo’s journey in Fiji was cut short after a dramatic duel that saw Garbi stay in the villa due to an accidental injury to Nicola Gauci Borda-Warr, while Kendall faced off against powerhouse Josh Goldstein—and lost by a mere second. Now, as he reflects on the chaos of the villa, Kendall is candid about his experience, his growth, and his hopes of rekindling things with Garbi.
Unlike his time on Love Island USA Season 6, where the focus was squarely on finding love, Kendall approached Love Island Games with a fresh perspective. “I wanted to take it slow, focus on building a real connection while tackling the challenges on the side,” he shared. His early days with Garbi were promising, sparking a bond that felt authentic. But the intensity of the Games quickly shattered any illusions of a laid-back experience. “It’s not just about love. Every day, someone’s vulnerable, someone’s scheming to get you out. It’s like Survivor—you’re fighting for your life in there.”
The high-pressure environment forced Kendall to balance strategy and romance, a mix he found both challenging and liberating. “It took the pressure off the love side,” he explained. “We could talk strategy, lean on each other, and still have those deep conversations without rushing things.”
Kendall jumped at the chance to join Love Island Games, hoping to show a more relaxed, fun side of himself. “I thought it’d be a blast—play some games, maybe find someone special. But it was next-level intense,” he admitted with a laugh. The experience revealed a side of Kendall that fans hadn’t seen before, earning him a wave of positive feedback. However, the relentless competition left him questioning whether he’s cut out for cutthroat reality shows. “I’m more about love than games,” he confessed. “The stress of being on edge every day? That’s not for me. I’d rather focus on connection than survival.”
With Love Island Games known for stirring the pot by bringing in exes, Kendall couldn’t help but wonder if his ex, Nicole Jacky, might make a surprise appearance. “I thought there was a chance she’d show up,” he admitted. “She’s super competitive and would’ve crushed it.” But Kendall was clear that, even if Nicole had joined, it wouldn’t have derailed his focus. “We wouldn’t have coupled up, but she could’ve been an ally. It crossed my mind, but it didn’t happen.”
Kendall’s elimination came down to a nail-biting duel against Josh Goldstein, a competitor he calls “the toughest in there.” Losing by just one second, Kendall was overwhelmed with emotion. “I was rambling, pouring out why I came on the show, what kept me going,” he recalled. “I was sad, knowing I had unfinished business with Garbi, but I was proud of how far I’d come.” Josh’s drive, fueled by personal motivations like competing for his sister, added a layer of depth to the loss. “When you step into that arena, the pressure’s unreal. Your heart’s racing, everyone’s watching. It’s deep.”
While Kendall could be bitter about the power squad’s decision to pit him against Josh, he’s choosing acceptance. “They saw an opportunity and took it. That’s the game,” he said. “I fought tooth and nail—two duels in three days. I’m grateful for the experience.”
Garbi’s strength in the villa has been a source of pride for Kendall, who’s rooting for her to “keep killing it.” Their bond, though tested by the game’s intensity, grew stronger through challenges like the Baby Bird drama with Lucinda Strafford. “That was tough,” Kendall admitted. “I let doubt creep in when I should’ve trusted Garbi. I apologized, and it made us stronger.”
One of the most pivotal moments in their connection came when Garbi shared that she’s a virgin. “I was honored she trusted me with that,” Kendall said. “It’s not something you just tell anyone. My respect for her skyrocketed. She’s so genuine, saving that part of herself for the right person. That’s rare, especially in a place like Love Island.”
As Garbi continues to “avenge” his exit, Kendall’s focus is on the future. “I want to see her ASAP,” he said. “We didn’t get to talk enough about life outside the villa because it was all about survival. Once this wraps up, I want to sit down and talk about us.”
Reflecting on his journey, Kendall sees growth in how he approaches relationships. “I used to rush things, chasing feelings and forcing connections,” he shared. “Now, I’m more patient, more intentional. I take my time getting to know someone, building trust. With Garbi, there was no pressure, and that felt right.”
While his walls are higher now, Kendall believes it’s made him more mature in love. “I’m careful about who I let in, who I bring to meet my family. That’s growth for me.”
Kendall has some picks for Love Island Games Season 3. “Connor Newsum would dominate—he’s a physical beast,” he said. “Rob Rausch would kill it too, and JaNa Craig? She’d be a social and competitive powerhouse.”
As Kendall processes his explosive exit, he’s not dwelling on the loss. Instead, he’s looking ahead, determined to reconnect with Garbi and see where their story goes. “Our exit was a bomb, no excuses,” he said. “But I’m ready to win her back—outside the villa.”