The Buff Doge vs. Cheems meme first gained massive popularity on Reddit in mid-2020. It features 'Swole Doge'—a muscular version of the iconic Shiba Inu—representing a powerful figure from the past, contrasted with 'Cheems'—a small, awkward Shiba Inu—representing a weaker or more anxious version in the present. This format is widely used to mock how historical figures, industries, or personal habits have allegedly declined over time, highlighting a humorous 'Then vs. Now' dynamic that resonates across various online communities.