After three years of highlights, heartbreaks, and international battles, Zachary “zekken” Patrone has officially parted ways with Sentinels, marking the end of an era for one of North America’s most electric VALORANT players.

A Farewell Fit for a Star

Sentinels confirmed the news with a heartfelt post on X, thanking their long-time Duelist and recognising his legacy within the organisation.

You set the bar for what it means to be a Sentinel

There will always be a key to the city for you @zekkenVAL pic.twitter.com/mHtOuN2gsE

— Sentinels (@Sentinels) November 1, 2025

The 20-year-old departs as a free agent after his contract expired at the end of the 2025 VCT season. His time with Sentinels saw the organisation return to the top of the Americas region, and at one point, reclaim their status as one of the most feared teams in global VALORANT.

From XSET Prodigy to Sentinels Star

Zekken first joined Sentinels in late 2022 after an impressive stint with XSET, a team that was dominant in the pre-franchise era. Known for his confident playstyle and flexible agent pool, he initially shared Duelist duties with Tyson “TenZ” Ngo before later transitioning into hybrid roles.

His defining year came in 2024, when Sentinels lifted two major trophies: VCT Americas Kickoff and Masters Madrid. Those victories marked the organisation’s first titles since 2021 and cemented zekken’s reputation as one of the world’s premier Duelists.

Sentinels also achieved a respectable fourth-place finish at Champions Seoul 2024, closing the year as one of the most successful teams globally.

The Rebuild Year

However, 2025 proved more turbulent. After veterans TenZ and Sacy retired, Sentinels underwent a soft rebuild, introducing new faces while retaining core leadership in Johnqt and Kaplan. The team remained competitive but struggled to maintain consistency on the international stage.

Despite qualifying for every major event that year, Sentinels couldn’t replicate their 2024 form. They finished as runners-up at both the Americas Kickoff and Stage 1, followed by a third-place result in Stage 2. Internationally, they exited early at Masters Bangkok, placed 5th–6th at Masters Toronto, and failed to advance past groups at Champions Seoul.

With Zellsis departing to Cloud9 and Bang moving on earlier in the offseason, zekken’s exit now marks a full transition period for the squad.

The Next Chapter: MIBR on the Horizon

According to reports from THESPIKE.GG and Brazilian journalist Bruno Povoleri, zekken is expected to join MIBR, forming a new superteam alongside world champion Erick “aspas” Santos.

The move would unite two of the most mechanically gifted players in the Americas, sparking excitement, and plenty of memes, across social media.

Fans have already dubbed the potential roster “MIBR Zekken,” with comments flooding Sentinels’ farewell post:

“MIBR ARE WINNING IT ALL.”
“Sad to see him go, but happy to see him with aspas again.”
“O7 King. End of an era.”

If confirmed, the transfer could make MIBR one of the top contenders heading into VCT 2026, especially given aspas’ championship pedigree and zekken’s aggressive versatility.

What’s Next for Sentinels

For Sentinels, all eyes are now on their next rebuild phase. Reports suggest the team will retain Marshall “N4RRATE” Massey and Mohamed “johnqt” Ouarid, with potential additions including former MIBR player Gabriel “qck” Cortez and IGL Mirel “braco” Hrustemovic.

Head coach Adam “Kaplan” Kaplan and assistant Luke “GUNTER” Clives are also expected to continue leading the lineup into 2026, aiming to restore Sentinels’ international dominance.

Despite the shakeup, Sentinels’ fanbase remains as passionate as ever, a testament to how deeply players like zekken have defined the team’s identity.

End of an Era, Start of Another

Zekken’s departure feels bittersweet for many fans. While it marks the close of a memorable chapter for Sentinels, it also opens a new one filled with potential. Whether he’s repping the red of Sentinels or the green and yellow of MIBR, one thing is certain, zekken’s story in VALORANT is far from over.

The post Zekken Departs Sentinels After Three-Year Journey, Reportedly Joining MIBR for VCT 2026 appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

Riot Games has officially confirmed that Harbor, widely regarded as VALORANT’s weakest agent, will be getting a full rework later this year. The announcement came during the VALORANT Champions 2025 Dev Update Panel in Paris, teasing fans with the promise of long-awaited changes coming in Patch 11.10.

The update doesn’t have an official release date yet, but it’s expected to arrive in mid-to-late November as part of VALORANT’s end-of-year update. Alongside general gameplay and balance changes, this patch will bring a major overhaul to Harbor’s abilities and gameplay style, something many players have been hoping for since his release.

The end-of-year changes are on the way, and so is a Harbor rework!?

From the #VALORANTChampions Dev Update Panel. pic.twitter.com/1AgonABhSI

— VALORANT (@VALORANT) October 3, 2025

Harbor Finally Gets the Buff He Deserves

Since debuting in 2022, Harbor’s kit has struggled to make an impact. His water-based walls and shields sounded great on paper but never stacked up against more versatile Controllers like Omen or Viper. According to Tracker.gg, Harbor currently has the lowest pick rate across all ranks, and professional players have almost completely avoided him throughout the VCT 2025 season.

Game Designer Ryan Cousart confirmed that the rework aims to keep Harbor’s original hybrid identity as both a Controller and Initiator intact, while also introducing brand-new abilities to modernise his playstyle.

“A lot of Harbor’s identity is still true, and we wanted to make sure that was there,” Cousart said. “There’s a lot we’re going to be shuffling around to make you think about those abilities differently, but we also have a couple of new abilities that we wanted to add through.”

Fans are already speculating on social media about what the new abilities might look like. Some hope for a passive that lets him cross his own walls without being slowed, while others want Riot to lean harder into his Initiator potential. As one fan joked on X, “If his walls don’t slow teammates to start, it’s already a massive W.”

Setting the Stage for 2026

Tiffy Tsay, Senior Product Manager at Riot Games, explained that the end-of-year patch isn’t just about balancing but also preparing for what’s next.

“Sometimes we need to take bigger swings at things in one go,” Tsay said. “That’s what the goal for the end-of-year patches is — to set up the foundations for next year so that when you come back, the game feels fresh and ready for all the new content.”

It’s been a while since VALORANT has seen a full agent rework, with Yoru being the last to receive one. That makes this Harbor update even more exciting for the community. As players wait for Patch 11.10, expectations are high that the Indian Controller will finally rise from the bottom of the pick charts and become a real contender in both ranked and pro play.

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Japanese esports organisation DetonatioN FocusMe (DFM) has announced that it’s opening recruitment for players, coaches, and analysts ahead of the VCT Pacific 2026 season.

After securing their first-ever playoff appearance in VCT Pacific 2025 Stage 2, DFM is looking to take things even further next year, with their sights firmly set on qualifying for VALORANT Champions and ultimately becoming the best in the world.

「DetonatioN FocusMe」が2026年シーズンへ向け選手 / コーチ / アナリストの募集を開始https://t.co/MrPn6usKCG

— VALORANTニュース (@ValorantNews_jp) October 3, 2025

According to the official announcement, the organisation is seeking individuals with strong competitive skills, a deep passion for winning, and the drive to perform at the highest level of professional VALORANT.

Open Roles and Requirements

DFM is welcoming applications for player and coach/analyst positions, each with their own criteria.

For players, applicants must:

• Be 18 years or older as of January 1, 2026
• Hold a Radiant rank or higher
• Have strong tournament results or equivalent competitive experience
• Be able to obtain a visa for South Korea
• Communicate in Japanese
• Have no history of cheating or using macro tools
• Be willing to live and train in DFM’s gaming house in Seoul during tournament periods

For coaches and analysts, the criteria are similar, they must be able to stay in Korea, communicate effectively with the team, and uphold DFM’s code of conduct. However, there’s no age or skill-level restriction for these roles.

In addition to in-game excellence, DFM is looking for individuals who can collaborate actively, follow team discipline, and contribute to content and sponsor activities. The organisation also emphasised the importance of professionalism and responsible behaviour on social media and livestreams.

Successful candidates will be contacted directly after document screening for interviews and try-outs. Those interested can apply through the official DFM VALORANT 2026 recruitment form.

Building on Momentum

Despite a challenging 2025 season, which saw DFM finish sixth in the VCT Pacific Kickoff and fail to qualify for Masters Bangkok or VALORANT Champions Paris, the team did manage to break through with a playoff appearance in Stage 2, a first for the organisation since joining the Pacific League.

With this new recruitment drive, DFM aims to strengthen its lineup and continue building towards international success. The organisation’s message is clear: they’re not just rebuilding, they’re chasing greatness.

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Valorant players, get ready to level up your gunplay skills with the new Skirmish mode! The much-awaited update introduces a unique, round-based mode that focuses solely on combat. No spike, no complex objectives, just pure firefights to hone your abilities and improve your reaction time.

According to a recent news leak by valohabercisi (@valohabercisi), a well-known Valorant dataminer, Skirmish allows players to go head-to-head in solo duels or team up in groups. The objective is simple: the first team to win 10 rounds claims victory. It’s a great way to sharpen your aim and get comfortable with different weapons, without the pressure of completing missions or planting the spike.

NEW GAME MODE

SKIRMISH

“Practice your gunplay in a solo duel or in teams. No spike, just kills, first team to win 10 rounds wins.”

— valohabercisi (@valohabercisi) September 30, 2025

What’s New in Skirmish?

The Skirmish game mode features several minimaps to choose from, providing a fresh spin on the usual practice routines. From the leaked information shared by valohabercisi, , it’s clear that Skirmish has a structure similar to traditional Team Deathmatch (TDM) but with a round-based format. The focus is entirely on gunplay, allowing players to practice their aim and tactics without other distractions.

Skirmish Mode Map A Minimap | Image via @valohabercisi

Skirmish Mode Map B Minimap | Image via @valohabercisi

Skirmish Mode Map C Minimap | Image via @valohabercisi

Skirmish Map Loading Screen | Image via @valohabercisi

Although many players have expressed interest in this new mode, some are wondering if it will replace or supplement existing game modes like Team Deathmatch or Replication. While Skirmish is certainly inspired by TDM, the round-based structure adds a new layer of strategy and excitement. It’s a great way to practice for more competitive modes or just have fun with friends before diving into serious ranked matches.

Community Reactions: Mixed Reviews

On social media, the community is buzzing with thoughts and opinions about the new mode. Some players are excited by the prospect of a simpler, more focused practice environment. “This sounds really fun. Especially if it’s round-based. Reminds me of that one mode in Call of Duty,” said one excited fan.

Others, however, are wondering about how the mode will compare to traditional gameplay. “Is this just TDM without any objectives?” questioned another fan. It’s clear that while some players are excited to see a fresh take on the classic combat mode, others are still unsure how it will fit into the overall game experience.

Key Takeaways for Players

• Skirmish Mode is a round-based game mode where the first team to win 10 rounds wins the match.
• No spike planting or defusal required, just gunplay.
• The mode is designed for solo or team duels, making it ideal for players to warm up or improve their skills.
• Skirmish features multiple new minimaps for variety.
• While many fans are excited, some wonder if this mode will replace or complement existing ones like TDM or Replication.

Will Skirmish become your new go-to practice mode, or will it fade into the background like some other limited-time events? Only time will tell. Either way, it’s a welcome addition for Valorant players looking to up their game.

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Tyler “Juicy” James Aeria has confirmed that he is stepping back from Wolves Esports and will be exploring new opportunities ahead of the 2026 Valorant Champions Tour (VCT) season.

In a statement posted on social media, the 20-year-old Duelist revealed that Wolves have given him permission to seek out discussions with other teams.

Hello everyone, juicy here

Wolves Esports has given me the opportunity to explore options for the upcoming season. I am now open to discussions with teams and organizations regarding potential opportunities in the professional Valorant scene. I can speak fluent english and able…

— WOL juicy (@juicyVALO) September 28, 2025

“Wolves Esports has given me the opportunity to explore options for the upcoming season,” Juicy wrote. “I am now open to discussions with teams and organisations regarding potential opportunities in the professional Valorant scene. I can speak fluent English and [am] able to relocate.”

From Challengers to the Global Stage

Juicy’s rise through the Valorant scene has been nothing short of impressive. After early stints with BLEED and Disguised, he found himself on Wolves in 2025, marking his first time competing in the VCT franchise system.

With Disguised, Juicy helped secure the Malaysia/Singapore Challengers title in 2024 and booked a spot at Pacific Ascension, where the team finished in 5th-6th place. Prior to that, he was part of BLEED’s victorious Pacific Ascension run in 2023 before moving on to make room for North American star yay.

His time with Wolves proved to be a breakout moment. Playing as the team’s primary Duelist, Juicy helped Wolves to a remarkable third-place finish at Masters Toronto, one of the highlights of the 2025 season.

Reflecting on his time with the organisation, Juicy shared his gratitude:
“I really want to thank my team, teammates, and organisation for the amazing time and memories we made together and also for all the things I have learned while working with them. It was an amazing season and especially a really good run for my first year in franchise, which could not be possible without the team.”

Wolves’ Current Roster

With Juicy now inactive, Wolves Esports’ roster stands as follows:

• Pong “SiuFatBB” Gaa Hei (庞加曦)
• Huang “Yuicaw” Yung-chieh (黃湧傑)
• Liu “Spring” Jiunting (刘俊霆)
• Liang “Lysoar” Youhao (梁优好)
• Chang “V1yA” Rui-min (张睿珉)

Support staff:

• “Simple” (Manager)
• Chong “Fayde” Hoc Wah (Head coach)
• Chelceed “Maark” Viernes (Assistant coach)
• Sushant “Ominous” Jha (Analyst)
• “Jiaqi” (Staff)

What’s Next for Juicy?

Juicy is now a free agent heading into the 2026 VCT season. Given his track record across Southeast Asia and his international experience, he’s likely to be a hot prospect for organisations looking to strengthen their roster with an explosive Duelist talent.

With his proven ability on LAN and a Masters podium finish under his belt, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Juicy land with another franchise team sooner rather than later.

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The biggest VALORANT tournament of the year is bringing in a brand-new prize that’s got players buzzing. Riot Games has revealed that the winners of VALORANT Champions 2025 won’t just be lifting the trophy and pocketing their share of $2.25 million, they’ll also be walking away with the new Champions Necklace, a piece of jewellery that blends esports prestige with luxury style.

The Champions MVP bracelet and Champions Pendant 🔥 pic.twitter.com/ONY37yXFuT

— VALORANT Champions Tour (@ValorantEsports) September 27, 2025

From Cube to Chain

For years, members of the winning team received a Radiant Cube as their personal keepsake from Champions. That tradition is now retired. Instead, each player on the victorious roster will be given a sterling silver necklace featuring the Champions Pendant, complete with a 22-carat gold cube set into the chain.

The pendant itself carries a lot of detail. It includes the iconic Champions trophy, a bead marking the year, and an engraving on the bottom that lists the winning team and final score. It’s not just a piece of hardware, it’s a statement.

Designed for Style and Legacy

The Champions Necklace was developed in partnership with Good Art Hollywood, the same jeweller behind the Champions MVP bracelet, which will continue to be awarded separately. According to VALORANT Esports Commissioner Leo Faria, the decision to shift from the cube to a necklace came after speaking with players at the Seoul afterparty last year.

“Potter didn’t say the cube was lame, but she did say players want the drip,” Faria recalled. “They want something cool to show on social media and celebrate the achievement. That’s why we’re doing the Champions Pendant.”

A New Era of Champions Rewards

The necklace represents more than just a prize, it’s a cultural shift. VALORANT players and fans are known for embracing style, and Riot is clearly leaning into that energy with this move. The combination of sterling silver and 22-carat gold ensures it isn’t just flashy but also symbolic of the game’s growing legacy.

VALORANT Champions 2025 wraps up on October 5, and whoever takes the title will be the first team to wear the new Champions Necklace. The cube may be gone, but the drip is here to stay.

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Fnatic have been dealt a major blow at VALORANT Champions 2025, with star player Emir “Alfajer” Ali Beder sidelined due to health issues just hours before their highly anticipated matchup against Paper Rex.

The organisation confirmed the news on X (formerly Twitter), explaining that Alfajer has been dealing with health concerns in recent days. While he is reportedly on the mend, medical staff advised that he sit out to prioritise his recovery. Fnatic’s Head Coach CoJo added further context, revealing that Alfajer had spent much of the previous night in hospital undergoing checks.

Some things are more important than Valorant.

Has been a brutal last 24hrs with all of last night spent in the hospital (horrible experience btw, 8.5hrs wait and didn’t get a diagnosis). Fortunately, Alfa is looking better today and on the mend but more to be done with the… https://t.co/W3tVr2Lin3

— FNATIC CoJo (@CoJoPM) September 28, 2025

“Some things are more important than VALORANT,” CoJo wrote, thanking fans for their support and asking everyone to send their best wishes to Alfajer as he continues treatment.

Doma Returns to the Stage

Stepping into the gap is Domagoj “Doma” Fancev, a familiar face for Fnatic fans. Doma previously represented the team between 2020 and 2022 and was part of their memorable run at VALORANT Champions 2021. Despite receiving just 16 hours’ notice, he was quick to answer the call and will rejoin Jake “Boaster” Howlett and the rest of the squad on stage.

Fnatic expressed confidence in Doma’s ability to handle the high-pressure situation, pointing to his prior synergy with the team and his versatility in Initiator and Sentinel roles. The organisation also extended thanks to Enterprise Esports for allowing Doma to step in on such short notice.

A Huge Match with Bigger Stakes

The clash between Fnatic and Paper Rex was already one of the most anticipated of the tournament. With a spot in the Upper Final on the line, the absence of Alfajer—one of the top three performing players at Champions so far, significantly shifts the odds.

Paper Rex, known for their aggressive playstyle and global fanbase, now look even more favoured heading into the matchup. Still, Doma’s return offers a glimmer of hope. His similar playstyle to Alfajer could help maintain balance in Fnatic’s strategies, keeping their upper bracket run alive.

If Fnatic fall short, they’ll be forced into the lower bracket, where every match is do-or-die. Regardless of the outcome, all eyes will be on Doma’s performance and Alfajer’s recovery in the days ahead.

Fnatic closed their announcement with a message to supporters: “Give your love over to Alfa—we’ll see you at 3PM!”

The post Fnatic’s Alfajer Misses VCT 2025 Clash with Paper Rex, Doma Steps In appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

After more than a year away from the stage, Swedish pro Leo “Leo” Jannesson has officially retired from competitive VALORANT, closing the chapter on one of the game’s most decorated careers.

After 3 years of last minute clutches, two international trophies and being an undisputable fan favourite, we wish farewell to @leojannesson.

Whilst the last year hasn’t been what we or Leo had hoped for, we are incredibly proud that Leo’s career was with us and for all the… pic.twitter.com/8yWMyBxm5O

— FNATIC (@FNATIC) September 10, 2025

The 20-year-old stepped back from FNATIC’s active roster in June 2024 due to ongoing health issues, with hopes of eventually returning. Unfortunately, his condition never improved enough to make a comeback, leading to his retirement in September 2025.

FNATIC Bids Farewell

FNATIC confirmed the news in an emotional statement:
“Whilst the last year hasn’t been what we or Leo had hoped for, we are incredibly proud that Leo’s career was with us and for all the achievements we had with him on our roster. For now, Leo will be stepping away from VALORANT and we wish him all the very best in his future endeavours.”

The organisation also released a farewell video celebrating Leo’s career highlights, including some of his most memorable clutches and international triumphs. FNATIC’s VALORANT Team Director, Colin “CoJo” Johnson, described the moment as heartbreaking:
“To see a player as talented and hardworking as Leo put away the mouse due to illness feels like a knife in the gut.”

From Guild Esports to Global Glory

Leo first rose to prominence with bonk before making waves at Guild Esports, where his sharp playstyle and consistency helped him stand out against some of Europe’s strongest teams. His big break came when FNATIC signed him at the end of 2022, rebuilding their roster around talents like Timofey “Chronicle” Khromov and Emir “Alfajer” Ali Beder.

The move paid off immediately. In 2023, FNATIC delivered one of the most dominant seasons VALORANT has ever seen. They went undefeated at VCT LOCK//IN São Paulo, where Leo was named MVP, and followed it up with another flawless run at Masters Tokyo. The back-to-back victories cemented Leo’s reputation as the blueprint for Initiator players worldwide.

Even though FNATIC finished fourth at Champions 2023, Leo remained a key figure in the team, ending the year as one of the top-rated players in the global circuit.

The Struggles of 2024

Things took a turn in 2024. While FNATIC remained competitive, they missed out on Masters Madrid and bowed out in the top eight at Masters Shanghai. That Shanghai appearance would unknowingly be Leo’s last professional match.

In June 2024, he was benched due to health concerns, and although he posted a short update in July about his ongoing recovery, he never regained the physical condition needed to return. FNATIC eventually brought in Austin “crashies” Roberts to fill his role.

A Lasting Legacy

Despite his early retirement, Leo leaves behind a legacy that few can rival. He is one of only five players in VALORANT history to win back-to-back international trophies and will be remembered for his flawless Initiator play and ice-cold decision-making under pressure.

His former teammates and coaches have spoken warmly about him since the announcement.
“Proud to have been your IGL and your teammate,” said Jake “Boaster” Howlett.
Alfajer added, “Such amazing years together, such a good friend… thanks for all the things we’ve been through together.”
And Jacob “Mini” Harris, FNATIC’s former coach, summed it up: “Leo set the standard for how great VALORANT should be played and most still don’t come close.”

Truly depressing.

Leo set the standards for how great VALORANT should be played and most still don’t come close. https://t.co/OPliRzwfux

— mini (@minijake_) September 10, 2025

What’s Next for FNATIC

FNATIC’s current roster now includes Boaster, crashies, Chronicle, kaajak, and Alfajer, supported by their coaching and performance staff. With the VALORANT Champions Tour 2025 already underway, the organisation will aim to build on Leo’s legacy as they push for another shot at international silverware.

As for Leo, his time in the spotlight may have ended sooner than expected, but his impact on VALORANT is set in stone. For fans, he will always be remembered as one of the greats who helped shape the competitive scene.

The post Fnatic Leo Retires from Competitive VALORANT After Health Struggles appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

G2 Esports have done it again. The squad pulled off a clean 3–0 sweep against NRG in the VCT Americas Stage 2 grand final, securing their third straight regional trophy this season. With wins at Kickoff, Stage 1, and now Stage 2, G2 have completed the perfect Americas run and locked in the top seed for Champions Paris.

THE GOLDEN ERA OF VALORANT

PURE DOMESTIC DOMINATION

BACK-TO-BACK-TO-BACK AMERICAS CHAMPIONS pic.twitter.com/LJX15EBdSX

— G2 VALORANT (@G2VALORANT) September 1, 2025

A dominant run through NRG

The series kicked off on Bind, G2’s pick, but NRG came out swinging with strong pistol rounds and sharp rifle play. Ethan led the charge early while Skuba matched his firepower, giving NRG a brief edge. Still, G2’s steady mid-round calls from Valyn and explosive plays from jawgemo flipped momentum their way. A late push carried them over the line 13–11.

Lotus was up next, and although it was NRG’s pick, it was all G2. Their layered site executions and relentless defensive setups shut down every opening NRG tried to create. Valyn once again proved why he would later be crowned Grand Final MVP, supported by JonahP and jawgemo delivering multikill rounds. G2 closed it out 13–8, putting themselves just one map away from the championship.

On Ascent, NRG looked like they might claw their way back. Pistols and an early bonus round gave them some breathing room, but G2’s trademark structure took over again. Leaf, back in the lineup after his short health-related break, delivered clutch moments while trent provided one of the series’ most important plays with a calm 1v2 hold. You can read more about leaf’s return after Crohn’s disease treatment here. Despite brawk and mada keeping NRG competitive, G2’s pace and discipline proved too much, finishing 13–10 to seal the 3–0 sweep.

The golden road for G2

This victory means more than just another trophy. G2 have completed the Americas treble, winning Kickoff, Stage 1, and Stage 2 in the same year. For a team that only entered VCT Americas via Ascension, it’s a massive statement of consistency and dominance.

It also sets them up perfectly for Champions Paris, where G2 will represent the region as the number one seed in Group D. NRG, despite falling short here, will also be in Paris, entering Group C with plenty still to prove.

Valyn’s leadership has been the backbone of G2’s run, but every player had their moment across the season—jawgemo’s pace, JonahP’s initiator setups, trent’s composure, and leaf’s return to form have all been vital. After a trophy-less 2024, G2 are now one of the scariest teams heading into the biggest stage of them all.

With a year already defined by structure, discipline, and adaptability across different metas, G2 now have their eyes set on closing 2025 with the biggest prize VALORANT has to offer.

The post G2 Esports Sweep NRG to Win VCT Americas Stage 2 appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

Paper Rex has done it again, securing the VCT Pacific Stage 2 trophy after a hard-fought 3-1 victory against Rex Regum Qeon (RRQ) in the Grand Finals. The Singapore-based squad reclaimed its place at the top of the Pacific region, locking in a direct ticket to VALORANT Champions 2025 in Paris later this month.

They’ve held it before. They lost it.

Now, PAPER REX ARE YOUR 2025 VCT PACIFIC CHAMPIONS! 🏆 pic.twitter.com/D3V09hma96

— VCT Pacific (@vctpacific) August 31, 2025

Paper Rex vs RRQ, The Grand Finals Recap

The final showdown was packed with storylines. RRQ had the chance to become the first back-to-back Pacific champions, while Paper Rex were hungry to lift their first regional trophy in over a year. Coming from the upper bracket, PRX used its veto advantage to ban Corrode and Icebox, maps RRQ had shown strength on just a day earlier.

The series played out on Bind, Ascent, Lotus, and Haven, ending before a deciding fifth map was even needed.

Bind (13-8 PRX) PRX kicked off strong with its trademark double-Duelist comp, something on Yoru and Jinggg on Raze. Despite RRQ showing resilience in the second half, PRX held firm and closed out the map.

Ascent (13-7 PRX) With Ascent being a bit of a wildcard for both teams, Paper Rex surprised by dominating early, racing to a massive 10-0 lead. RRQ sparked a short comeback streak, but PRX tightened up to secure another win.

Lotus (13-6 RRQ) RRQ finally hit their stride here, taking their first pistol round of the series and riding that momentum to victory. Monyet led the charge, shutting down PRX’s attempts to sweep the series.

Haven (13-7 PRX) Haven has been one of Paper Rex’s comfort picks, and it showed. Their aggressive defensive setups with Waylay and Yoru caught RRQ off guard. Although RRQ tried to mount another comeback, a timeout steadied PRX to finish the job.

With a 3-1 scoreline, Paper Rex lifted the trophy and officially ended RRQ’s dream of back-to-back titles.

Standout Performances

Something was named MVP of the finals, posting a 1.28 rating and 250 ACS across the series. His Yoru play was central to PRX’s gameplan, spearheading attacks and consistently winning first duels.

our VCT Pacific MVP 🗣️@smthlikeyou11 pic.twitter.com/aTluFvbROD

— Paper Rex (@pprxteam) August 31, 2025

ForsakeN wasn’t far behind, once again proving why PRX’s core remains one of the most feared duos in VALORANT.

Head coach Alecks credited part of PRX’s success to adapting ideas from Fnatic, particularly the double-Duelist comp that paid off heavily on Bind. The team’s ability to quickly adjust strategies while still playing its trademark high-octane style has kept them ahead of the curve.

A Year of Success for Paper Rex

This win caps off what’s already been a huge year for Paper Rex. Earlier in 2025, they claimed first place at Masters Toronto after beating Fnatic 3-1 in the finals, and followed it up with a top-four finish at the Esports World Cup. Add this Pacific Stage 2 title, and PRX has cemented itself as one of the favourites heading into VALORANT Champions Paris.

PAPER REX ARE YOUR #VALORANTMASTERS TORONTO CHAMPIONS 🏆 pic.twitter.com/9pKD8FPkW2

— Valorant News (@ValorINTEL) June 22, 2025

Looking Ahead to Champions 2025

With Pacific Stage 2 wrapped, the focus now shifts to Paris. Four Pacific squads have punched their tickets:

• Paper Rex (Pacific Stage 2 champions)
• Rex Regum Qeon (runner-up)
• T1 (Pacific points leader)
• DRX (Pacific points #2)

The LAN event will run from September 12 to October 5, 2025, featuring 16 of the best teams in the world competing for a $2.25 million prize pool. Paper Rex will likely face off against the likes of Team Liquid, winners of VCT EMEA, and Bilibili Gaming, champions of China.

After reclaiming their throne in the Pacific, Paper Rex now have their sights set on the biggest stage in VALORANT. Paris is calling, and the boys in pink look more than ready to answer.

The post Paper Rex Crowned VCT Pacific Stage 2 Champions After 3-1 Win Over RRQ appeared first on Shane the Gamer.