Category: News

Marking a proud moment for Indian esports, Wasfi “YoshiKiller” Bilal captured a silver medal in Tekken 8 at the BRICS Esports Championship, held at Moscow’s VK Arena on November 9 and 10. Competing alongside athletes from nations including Brazil, Russia, South Africa, China, and the UAE, Bilal and his teammate Shubham “Shubham” Khorwal made an impressive international debut, securing second and fourth places, respectively.

Bilal excelled from the start, topping Group A in the opening rounds, while Khorwal took first place in Group B. Their strong performances advanced them to the Top 8, where they faced off against top-tier players from China, Russia, the UAE, and Brazil. In the quarterfinals, Bilal defeated Russia’s Higem with a 4-2 score, and Khorwal earned a clean 4-0 victory over China’s Ayu, both moving on to the semifinals.

In a thrilling semifinal, Bilal narrowly overcame UAE’s RenZoken with a 4-3 win, securing his spot in the final. Though Khorwal faced a narrow 4-2 defeat against China’s XCC in his semifinal, he finished fourth after battling RenZoken in the bronze match. In the championship face-off, Bilal went head-to-head with defending champion XCC, ultimately finishing in second place and taking home the silver.

The tournament awarded prize money to the top finishers. XCC, the champion, received 650,000 Russian Rubles (around Rs 5.6 lakhs), while Bilal earned 300,000 Rubles (approx. Rs 2.5 lakhs) for his silver. Khorwal, finishing fourth, was awarded 75,000 Rubles (around Rs 65,000).

Reflecting on his journey, Bilal shared, “Representing India internationally and winning silver at my first major tournament is a moment I’ll always cherish. Competing against top players pushed me to my limits, and I’m motivated to bring more glory to India in future tournaments.”

Khorwal added, “This experience, representing India on an international platform and placing fourth, has been truly inspiring. I’m eager for future opportunities to compete at this level.”

Lokesh Suji, ESFI director, praised the players’ achievements: “India’s esports journey is scaling new heights, from a bronze at the 2018 Asian Games to another at the 2022 Commonwealth Esports Championship, and now silver at the BRICS Championship. Bilal and Shubham have demonstrated incredible discipline and resilience, and we’re optimistic about clinching gold soon. They deserve full credit for their dedication, teamwork, and sportsmanship.”

Final Standings:

• Gold: XCC (China)
• Silver: YoshiKiller (India)
• Bronze: RenZoken (UAE)
• Fourth place: Shubham (India)

Brackets: https://pvp.vkplay.ru/tournament/34082/bracket

This past weekend, Tekken fans were treated to a spectacular display of skill and strategy as three top players – Yoshikiller, Shubham, and Tejan – battled it out for the championship title. Each match brought edge-of-your-seat excitement, with intense back-and-forth gameplay that kept the audience engaged until the final moment. Let’s break down the key matches and highlights from this incredible event.

Winners Final: Yoshikiller vs. Shubham (3-2)

The Winners Final set the tone for the day, as Yoshikiller and Shubham faced off in an explosive match. Both players have been consistent performers throughout the tournament, and this match was no exception. The rounds were razor-close, with each player adapting and countering each other’s strategies.

Yoshikiller’s precise execution and timing gave him the edge in the final round, allowing him to secure a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Shubham. His ability to read Shubham’s movements and counter them effectively demonstrated why he was a top contender in the tournament.

Losers Final: Shubham vs. Tejan (3-2)

After his narrow loss, Shubham moved to the Losers Final, where he faced the relentless Tejan. This was another nail-biting match, as both players fought to stay alive in the tournament. Tejan, known for his aggressive playstyle, pushed Shubham to the limit, but Shubham’s patience and calm under pressure helped him come out on top.

In a back-and-forth exchange of blows and strategic moves, Shubham edged out Tejan with a 3-2 win, securing his spot in the Grand Final for a rematch against Yoshikiller. His comeback in the Losers Final showcased his tenacity and adaptability, making for one of the tournament’s most exciting matches.

Grand Final: Shubham vs. Yoshikiller (3-2)

The stage was set for an epic rematch in the Grand Final. Shubham, having fought his way back through the losers bracket, was ready to challenge Yoshikiller for the title. Despite Shubham’s momentum, Yoshikiller came prepared, displaying the same precision and control that had carried him throughout the tournament.

Though the match was another close 3-2 affair, Yoshikiller remained dominant and never let the game slip away. His defense was airtight, and his reads on Shubham’s playstyle gave him the upper hand. Yoshikiller closed out the Grand Final without the need for a reset, securing a clean victory and claiming the tournament title.

A Well-Deserved Champion

Yoshikiller’s performance across the tournament was nothing short of brilliant. His ability to consistently outmaneuver his opponents, even under intense pressure, cemented his place as the champion. Shubham put up a valiant effort, particularly in his journey through the losers bracket, but Yoshikiller’s flawless execution in the finals proved too much to handle.

Tejan also deserves recognition for his strong performance, especially in his close Losers Final match against Shubham. Though he fell just short of the Grand Final, his aggressive playstyle kept fans on the edge of their seats.

Final Thoughts

This tournament showcased the best of what the Tekken competitive scene has to offer – thrilling matches, unpredictable outcomes, and incredible displays of skill. Yoshikiller’s triumph, Shubham’s resilience, and Tejan’s relentless aggression all contributed to an unforgettable event. Fans are already looking forward to the next tournament, eager to see what these top players and rising stars will bring to the table.

Brackets Links: Toornament.com

Live Streaming: YouTube

Stay tuned for more tournament updates, match breakdowns, and Tekken news as the competitive scene continues to heat up!

Calling all Indian gamers and Tekken enthusiasts! The Esports Federation of India (ESFI) is hosting the NESC24 (BRICS Esports Championship), a highly anticipated national event that serves as a qualifier for the prestigious BRICS Esports Championship. This exciting online tournament will take place on October 8-9, 2024, and is set to feature Tekken 8 on PC (Steam) and PS5 Cross-Play. Get ready for an intense showdown, as the top two players will earn their spot in Team India and represent the nation on the global stage in Moscow at the BRICS Championship in November.

Why You Shouldn’t Miss Out:

The BRICS Esports Championship is one of the largest international gaming tournaments, with players from nine countries battling it out for esports glory. These countries include Russia, Brazil, India, China, Egypt, Iran, Ethiopia, South Africa, and the UAE. India will be represented by the top two athletes from NESC24, competing for a prize fund of 1,500,000 Rubles at the VK Play Arena in Moscow on November 9-10, 2024.

Event Highlights:

• Event Name: NESC24 (BRICS Esports Championship)
• Organizer: ESFI (Esports Federation of India)
• Sponsors: FITGMR, Artsmith, Inox, Madeha, Hama
• Platform: PC (Steam) & PS5 Cross-Play (Moscow LAN Event: PC Only)
• Collaboration: Russian E-Sports Federation

Registration Details:

To participate in NESC24, here’s what you need to register:

• Email Address
• Full Name
• Nationality: Only Indian nationals are eligible.
• Steam Profile URL
• Discord ID (You must join the ESFI Discord Server at this link and select the Tekken role. Please change your Discord nickname to your in-game name.)
• Mobile Number
• Date of Birth
• Age Proof: Participants under 18 must provide a signed Parental Consent Form.
• Address, City, State/UT, and Passport

Interested players can register using this form. Make sure to read the full NESC2024 Regulations, Terms & Conditions available here.

Don’t Miss Your Chance!

This is your opportunity to be a part of Indian esports history, so don’t miss out. If you’re a Tekken 8 fan and think you have what it takes to compete at an international level, register now and get ready to battle for your spot on Team India.

Get your controllers ready, and let’s show the world what Indian gamers are made of!

Important Dates:

• NESC24 (BRICS): October 8-9, 2024
• BRICS Esports Championship: November 9-10, 2024

Good luck, and may the best fighters win!

The TEKKEN Nexus 2024 event, held on August 4th at Pacific Mall NSP, marked a significant milestone in Indian esports. As a part of the TEKKEN WORLD TOUR, this event was classified in the prestigious 96+ dojo category and witnessed the highest registration numbers ever for a TWT dojo in India, with 150 participants.

An Epic Battle: AK Arhaan vs. JIN Sama

The event culminated in a thrilling grand finale where AK Arhaan emerged victorious against JIN Sama. In an intense showdown, AK Arhaan reset the bracket and secured the win, earning a prize of 16,000 INR, a QANBA Obsidian 2, and the coveted TEKKEN Nexus 2024 winner’s trophy and medal. This victory catapulted AK Arhaan to the top of the TWT 2024 Central South Asia ranking points, putting him in a prime position to potentially compete in the TWT 2024 Global Finals’ Regional Group Matches in Japan, should no other events occur in the region.

Outstanding Performances

JIN Sama also delivered an exceptional performance, navigating from pools to the grand finals without a single loss before facing AK Arhaan. For his commendable effort, JIN Sama secured the second place, taking home 8,000 INR and a QANBA Titan Arcade Stick.

The third-place finish went to SAK, who received 6,000 INR and a QANBA Drone 2 Arcade Stick. MAHARAJA, who captivated everyone with his impressive King gameplay, secured the fourth place, earning 4,000 INR and a QANBA Guardian Backpack 2.

In the fifth place tie, Weak Akuma and VLravyn both received 2,000 INR and Brook Wireless Gaming Headphones. The seventh place tie saw LKO Yousuf and Soul each winning 1,000 INR and Brook Wireless Gaming Controllers.

A Herculean Effort by Team Nexus

Organizing an event of this magnitude with 150 players and only 10 PS5 consoles was no small feat. Team Nexus faced numerous challenges, especially in managing and clearing the pools brackets. Despite these hurdles, the event was a resounding success and will be remembered as one of the significant milestones in Indian esports.

Setting Records and Looking Ahead

With TEKKEN Nexus 2024, Team Nexus has solidified its position as the only event team in India to successfully host back-to-back 96+ category events. The previous TEKKEN Nexus 2023 saw participation from 96 players, while the 2024 event saw an unprecedented 150 players.

Looking ahead, Team Nexus is planning another 96+ dojo event, which will be a two-day affair. Stay tuned with Team Nexus for more updates and information on this exciting upcoming event.

Live stream: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=clfG6p3H4dA&t=4s

Brackets: https://www.start.gg/tournament/tekken-nexus-2024/events

Tekken is not only a thrilling fighting game but also a platform where players can explore various avenues to earn money. Here are several strategies through which you can monetize your Tekken skills:

1. Participate in Tournaments:
   • Look for local and online Tekken tournaments that offer cash prizes. Many platforms and communities organize regular competitions where players can showcase their skills and win money.
2. Esports Competitions:
   • Follow the Tekken esports scene, including major tournaments and leagues. Participating in or qualifying for these events can open doors to substantial cash prizes, sponsorships, and recognition within the gaming community.
3. Content Creation:
   • Start a YouTube channel or Twitch stream dedicated to Tekken. Share your gameplay, tutorials, tips, and entertaining moments. Monetize your content through ad revenue, channel subscriptions, and viewer donations. Consistency and engaging content can attract a loyal audience.
4. Streaming Platforms:
   • Platforms like Twitch allow you to earn money through various channels. Viewers can subscribe to your channel for exclusive perks, and you can receive donations during your live streams. Twitch also has a built-in ad revenue system for eligible streamers.
5. Sponsorships and Endorsements:
   • As your visibility in the Tekken community grows, consider reaching out to gaming peripheral companies, energy drink brands, or other relevant sponsors. Sponsors may provide financial support, gaming equipment, or other perks in exchange for promoting their products during your streams or in your content.
6. Coaching and Tutoring:
   • If you excel at Tekken and have a deep understanding of the game mechanics, consider offering coaching services. Many players are willing to pay for personalized lessons to improve their skills. You can provide one-on-one coaching sessions or create instructional videos for purchase.
7. Merchandising:
   • Develop and sell merchandise related to your Tekken brand. This could include clothing, accessories, or even digital items. Platforms like Teespring or Redbubble make it easy for creators to design and sell their own merchandise.
8. Create an Online Presence:
   • Establish a strong presence on social media platforms. Share highlights of your gameplay, engage with the Tekken community, and use these platforms to promote your content, tournaments, or any other projects you’re involved in. A robust online presence can attract sponsors and partnerships.
9. Join Gaming Networks:
   • Connect with gaming networks and organizations that support esports players. These networks can provide additional opportunities for sponsorships, collaborations, and exposure.
10. Collaborate with Other Creators:
    • Collaborate with fellow Tekken players, streamers, or content creators. Cross-promotion can help expand your audience and introduce you to new opportunities within the gaming community.

Remember, building a sustainable income from playing Tekken takes time, effort, and dedication. Consistency in improving your skills, engaging with your audience, and staying connected with the gaming community will contribute to your success in monetizing your passion for Tekken.

In the heart of gaming enthusiasts and Tekken aficionados, the Nexus 2023 tournament unfolded at the vibrant D21 Mall in Dwarka, hosting over 80 participants eager to showcase their skills in the intense realm of Tekken 7. Among the contenders, the standout performance came from none other than KnightWing, who battled his way through the losers’ side to emerge victorious against the formidable Lionhart. The clash between these two titans, each controlling iconic characters – KnightWing with Steve Fox and Lionhart with Bob – delivered an electrifying showdown that will be etched in the annals of Tekken history.

The Nexus 2023 tournament buzzed with anticipation as fans gathered to witness the culmination of weeks of practice and dedication. The atmosphere at D21 Mall crackled with energy, setting the stage for intense face-offs and memorable moments. Among the sea of competitors, KnightWing and Lionhart’s journey to the finals added a layer of excitement to the event.

KnightWing’s choice of Steve Fox, a character known for his lightning-fast punches and evasive movements, demonstrated a deep understanding of the game’s mechanics. On the other side of the screen, Lionhart opted for the powerhouse Bob, a character whose strength and unpredictable maneuvers kept opponents on their toes. As the first match unfolded, it became evident that spectators were in for a treat.

The initial rounds saw both players showcasing their mastery of combos, blocks, and sidesteps, creating a tense back-and-forth. Lionhart’s Bob landed powerful hits, while KnightWing’s Steve Fox countered with swift and calculated strikes. The crowd erupted in cheers and gasps as the health bars fluctuated, reflecting the razor-thin margin that separated victory from defeat.

However, the tide took a turn in Lionhart’s favor as he secured the necessary rounds to send KnightWing to the losers’ bracket. Undeterred, KnightWing faced formidable opponents on the losers’ side, displaying resilience and adaptability. With each victory, KnightWing inched closer to a rematch with Lionhart in the grand finals.

As KnightWing fought his way through the losers’ bracket, the anticipation built for the grand finals. The atmosphere was electric as both players stepped onto the stage for the ultimate showdown. The dual screens mirrored the intensity of the battle, with Steve Fox and Bob locked in a dance of virtual combat that left spectators on the edge of their seats.

In an unexpected turn of events, KnightWing dominated the first set of the grand finals, showcasing a level of skill and precision that caught Lionhart off guard. The crowd erupted in cheers as KnightWing reset the brackets, signaling a fresh start to the final clash. The momentum had shifted, and KnightWing’s journey from the losers’ side seemed to have fueled an unstoppable drive for victory.

The reset breathed new life into the grand finals, and both players approached the second set with heightened focus. KnightWing’s Steve Fox continued to dazzle with intricate combos, while Lionhart’s Bob retaliated with unrelenting force. The tension in the air was palpable as each round unfolded, with both players refusing to back down.

In the decisive moments of the tournament, KnightWing showcased nerves of steel, capitalizing on every opportunity to secure critical rounds. The crowd erupted as KnightWing delivered a final blow, clinching victory and etching his name in the annals of Nexus 2023 history. The journey from the losers’ bracket to the grand finals had culminated in a triumphant moment for KnightWing, solidifying his status as the Tekken 7 champion.

The Nexus 2023 Tekken 7 tournament will be remembered not only for the fierce competition it hosted but also for KnightWing’s spectacular comeback. As the confetti fell and the cheers echoed through D21 Mall, KnightWing stood tall, a testament to the spirit of perseverance and skill that defines the competitive gaming community. The grand finals between KnightWing and Lionhart will forever be etched in the memories of Tekken enthusiasts, a thrilling chapter in the ongoing saga of virtual battles and triumphs.

Yoshikiller (Yoshimitsu) wins the NODWIN Gaming TEKKEN 7 Community Cup #15 against Rohit Jain (Eliza/Zafina). The Grand Finals Reset victory was a familiar sight to Indian Tekken fans that watched a similar comeback victory take place in Dreamhack Hyderabad late last year between the two top players. The back-and-forth rivalry between the two saw Jain send the Yoshimitsu main to losers early in the Winners bracket.

Check out our interview with Yoshikiller here.

The event also saw strong performances from Jeonsa and A.D., who took fourth and third place, respectively. Both players had a notable victory over KnightWing, with Jeonsa also eliminating Bilas early in the Losers Bracket.

The tournament takes place three months after Community Cup #14, which was also won by Yoshikiller. Community Cup #13 was won by Grey late last year.

 Top 8 Line-up:

The Tekken India website is officially sponsored by Tekken Freaks, the most popular Tekken community in India. We are India’s #1 online community for all Tekken-related news, events, and interviews. Here you can find Indian Tekkeners, online rankings, move lists, new updates, mods and much more.

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Wasfi Bilal, known as Yoshikiller, won Dreamhack Hyderabad in an impressive comeback victory against Delhi’s Rohit Jain on November 6th. This is by no measure the 20-year-old’s breakout performance, as Wasfi won multiple titles in the Nexus series this past year. His consistent top placements awarded him first place in the Tekken World Tour 2022’s leaderboard for the South Asian region, followed by Tejan, Hitesh Khorwal AKA Rcool, and Jain, respectively.

The Yoshimitsu main who hails from Kashmir says that preparations for Dreamhack started two weeks in advance with his cousin, and fellow Kashmiri Tekken player, Snakefury. “Our goal was to make top 8 anyhow to put KMR on board in the offline Tekken scene and thanks to Allah, the journey went awesome.”

KMR, which stands for Kashmir, is a community of 10-15 players in Kashmir that are active in the Tekken 7 scene. The tag is worn by multiple strong and up-and-coming players that hail from the region.

“The Nexus series helped me a lot as my family supported me after watching me leading the series again and again to participate in Dreamhack,” he says, adding “thanks to my big brother and SnakeFury, who helped me remain calm and focused during difficult on-stream matches.”

When asked about the challenges he faced in his run to gold at Dreamhack, Wasfi explains that there were many more hurdles than just Rohit Jain, who he faced thrice. “I started playing an anti-jump and high-check game in losers which specifically helped me beat Rohit,” he says.

Indian Tekken fans cheer for Wasfi’s exciting playstyle and calm demeanor, but also his dominant wins with Yoshimitsu. The character is largely considered low-tier by the community, with very few global figureheads producing results with the katana-wielding alien ninja.

“Honestly, I feel like Yoshimitsu is the best fun-to-play character in the entire roster. When I started, I didn’t know that I’ll make such progress with this character. I play a lot of characters, but I think in tournaments, my Yoshi is the strongest.”

Wasfi started his journey playing Tekken 3 in Kashmir some 14 years back with his brother at the numerous arcades present at the time. This exposed him to some of the strongest players in the region at that time, such as Snakefury, Windgod, Arsalan, among others. ‘KMR’ finds its roots here, as the name for their group.

“This offline tournament was just a start, but it was an amazing experience for us – KMR”, says Wasfi.

On November 12th, the top 4 placements in India will be facing each other at the regional qualifiers for the Tekken World Tour – Yoshikiller, Tejan, Rcool, and Rohit Jain. We urge you to tune in and support your favourite players.

Thanks for reading! We will be interviewing more Indian Tekken personalities if this is something the community enjoys.

The Tekken India website is officially sponsored by Tekken Freaks, the most popular Tekken community in India. We are India’s #1 online community for all Tekken related news, events, and interviews. Here you can find Indian Tekkeners, online rankings, move lists, new updates, mods and much more.

Passionate about Tekken? Join us!

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