Most People like a person who stand up for themselves. Rahul has many flaws, but he also has some qualities which attract ppl to him. He always maintains his self respect and gives zero fukcs to anyone who try to bully him. His loyalties and dislikes are open to everyone. There’s no confusion on who he likes or who he hates. He’s also not too calculative about the game, which worked for him initially but now, the same quality is not looking good for him at this point of the game. And his one liners are hilarious.
Nikki is also an firebrand with an individualistic personality, but , she makes or breaks allinances within seconds, just to further herself in the game. That kind of disloyalty is not liked by nuetral audience. And also makes her look confused and disoriented.