In an era where social media presence is everything, one unexpected star has taken LinkedIn by storm—a dog named Mika, belonging to Assaf Rappaport, the CEO of Israeli cybersecurity firm Wiz, which recently sealed a historic $32 billion acquisition deal with Google. While the business world is abuzz with discussions about the deal, Mika has captured the internet’s imagination in a completely different way.
So, how did Mika become a viral sensation? And what’s the connection between a pet dog and one of the largest cybersecurity acquisitions ever? Let’s dig into this fascinating story.
How Wiz CEO dog Mika inspired the deal?
Google’s biggest acquisition ever made headlines, but Mika’s story stole hearts. A lighthearted gesture toward Wiz’s beloved office dog showed that even billion-dollar deals have a human (and furry) side.
Mika shot to internet fame when LinkedIn users discovered that the dog had a profile on the platform—just like any other professional. The profile, which appeared to be a playful nod to Rappaport’s business acumen, humorously listed Mika’s “skills” and “experience” in a way that resonated with pet lovers and professionals alike. Her LinkedIn profile is a refreshing break from the usual corporate updates. In a digital world dominated by resumes and corporate jargon, Mika’s playful yet strategic presence stood out.
Assaf Rappaport, the CEO and co-founder of Wiz, has made a name for himself in the cybersecurity industry with his company’s cutting-edge cloud security solutions. While his business achievements are widely recognized, it’s the LinkedIn profile of his late beloved dog, Mika R, that has recently captured widespread attention. Reports suggest that during early acquisition discussions, Google took an unconventional approach to connect with Rappaport and his team by creating a mock employment contract for Mika. This playful yet thoughtful gesture reflected Google’s effort to align with Wiz’s culture, adding a personal touch to the high-stakes negotiations.
Mika’s sudden rise to fame coincided with a major business milestone—Google’s $32 billion acquisition of Wiz, making it the largest cybersecurity deal in history. According to report from The Wall Street Journal, Wiz’s technology, which focuses on cloud security, was highly sought after by Google. Assaf Rappaport and his co-founders are set to earn over $3 billion each from the sale, according to sources familiar with the deal. This marks the largest acquisition of a privately held, venture-backed company, surpassing Meta’s $19 billion purchase of WhatsApp in 2014.
Rappaport, who co-founded Wiz in 2020, is now among the most successful Israeli entrepreneurs. His company’s rapid rise and record-breaking acquisition cemented its position as a major player in the cybersecurity space. But he dearly misses his departed best friend who unfortunately passed away four months ago.
Mika, today would have been your 9th birthday.
– Assaf Rappaport
We were a power couple. Me, the shy one, struggling to make conversation with anyone new, and you, always being there to break the ice and melt everyone’s heart with just one look. You were never Assaf’s dog – I was Mika’s dad, and I could not be prouder of that title, because there is no accomplishment in the world that even comes close.
The doctors say your heart failed, little one. It filled with fluids, but the truth is, your heart was always full – with the love you had for the people you cared about so much, each one a unique bond that you created. You had the biggest heart, little one, maybe it was too much to bear.
You are the love of my life, I miss you.
Every time I had a rough day, when I was stressed or just feeling down, you would pass by nonchalantly, tapping on the glass door with that look waiting for me to open it for you. You sensed everything I felt. You’d put your head on my lap, and when things were really rough, you’d let me give you a long kiss. I’d take a sniff, and you’d return the love with a gentle lick. Then you’d go, tapping on the door again for me to let you out—because, of course, you had a busy schedule ahead. And with all due respect to your dad feeling a bit down, you had more visits to attend, and you were already running late.
You were an independent soul, moving between floors in the office, working your magic on everyone so they’d give you a snack or play with you. I’d feel a little jealous, wishing I had your grace, assertiveness, and courage.
But every now and then, in the middle of your daily adventures, you’d think of me, maybe even miss me a bit. You’d start to run in circles, searching, crying for anyone who might help you find me. Then, I’d hear someone in the hallway shout, “Assaf’s here, Mika, you don’t need to worry.” You’d come closer, make sure it was true, give me a sniff, and continue on your way.
When we said goodbye, I tried to do that, too. I took one last, long sniff of you, but it didn’t work, Mika. I can’t just go about my day. I need you by my side; I don’t feel complete without you.
When you were a puppy, we worked on positive thinking. I used to tell you that you were Beyoncé, and like her, there was nothing you couldn’t do. And you always did. You were hard to get; people always wanted you just a bit more than you wanted them. We’d turn the A/C up so it’d be cold enough in the bedroom, and you’d have to sleep on the bed with us. Then I’d brag about how you agreed to sleep next to me that night.
When you were in bed, I’d let you pick your spot first (you always picked the middle), and I’d hold my breath, restraining myself from petting you even a little, out of fear you’d get up and leave. I somehow knew, even though I got all the love you had to give, how fragile it was—and how it could all end in a heartbeat. One wrong move, and you’d be right back on the couch, lying on your back, your head turned one way, your legs spread out like a bunny.
Because Mika, you are Beyoncé—you did whatever you wanted. Respect. Yesterday, you did it your way, too.
Maybe, for just a moment, I took the wrong breath, and, as expected, you got up and left. Only this time, you didn’t go to the living room couch. This time, you didn’t lay like a bunny.
This time, you left. And you are not coming back.
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Mika’s unexpected fame highlights a few key trends in the digital and business world:
1. The Power of Personal Branding (Even for Pets!)
In today’s digital-first era, branding isn’t just for businesses—it extends to individuals (and even pets!). Mika’s LinkedIn profile showed how humor, personality, and relatability can boost engagement online.
2. The Human Side of Tech Leaders
Tech CEOs are often seen as highly technical or business-focused, but Mika’s viral moment added a human (or canine) touch to Rappaport’s persona. It reminded people that behind billion-dollar deals, there are real individuals with unique and relatable lives.
3. Virality is Unpredictable—but Authenticity Wins
Mika’s LinkedIn fame wasn’t a planned marketing move—it was a fun, authentic moment that resonated with people. This shows that content doesn’t need to be overly polished or strategic to succeed online. Sometimes, a genuine and lighthearted post can make a bigger impact than a carefully crafted corporate message.
While Google’s acquisition of Wiz is undoubtedly historic, Mika’s LinkedIn success adds a fun, unexpected twist to the story. This viral moment reminds us that even in the world of high-stakes tech and cybersecurity, there’s always room for a little humour, creativity, and—of course—dogs.
Even major news outlets covered Mika’s story, proving that sometimes, the internet just needs a feel-good moment—even in the middle of billion-dollar business deals.