The Evolution Championship Series (EVO) 2023 has concluded, leaving behind a trail of thrilling matches and newly crowned champions. This year’s event saw a remarkable surge in attendance and participation, solidifying its position as the premier gathering for fighting game enthusiasts. With thousands of on-site spectators and a global online audience on platforms like Twitch and YouTube, EVO 2023 was a testament to the flourishing popularity of competitive fighting games.
Street Fighter 6: Triumph of Skill and Strategy
Street Fighter 6 took center stage as the largest and most highly anticipated event at EVO 2023. With an impressive sign-up count of 7,061 participants, the competition was fierce. Emerging victorious from this intense battleground was AngryBird, who wielded the formidable character Ken to secure the championship. AngryBird’s journey to the top was marked by a series of masterful victories over some of the world’s most accomplished players. Even in the face of an impressive Loser’s Bracket comeback by MenaRD, AngryBird’s skill ultimately prevailed.
Street Fighter 6 Top Eight:
- AngryBird
- MenaRD
- Punk
- Tokido
- Haitani
- Kakeru
- Fujimura
- Nemo
Tekken 7: Arslan Ash Reigns Supreme
Tekken 7 showcased the exceptional talents of Arslan Ash, who clinched the EVO 2023 championship using the character Kunimitsu. Arslan’s path to victory included a decisive victory against AO during Winners Finals, propelling him to Grand Finals. Despite AO’s valiant efforts, Arslan Ash’s prowess was unmatched, resulting in a dominant 3-0 victory. The Pakistani gamer emerged as the undeniable champion of Tekken 7.
Tekken 7 Top Eight:
- Arslan Ash
- AO
- Ulsan
- Genghis D0n
- Meo-IL
- Anakin
- Nobi
- Doujin
Guilty Gear Strive: Leffen Claims Dual Titles
Leffen, celebrated as a top-tier player in Smash Melee, showcased his prowess in Guilty Gear Strive by securing the EVO 2023 championship as Happy Chaos. With unmatched dominance, Leffen powered through a talented pool of competitors from around the globe. This victory added to his already impressive list of achievements, solidifying his place as a formidable contender in the fighting game community.
Guilty Gear Strive Top Eight:
- Leffen
- NBNHMR
- Daru I-No
- Umisho
- Tyurara
- Verix
- Setchi
- Zando
Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3: Jibrill’s Triumph
Jibrill, a skilled American player, secured the championship title for Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3. Employing the powerful combination of Zero, Dante, and Vergil, Jibrill showcased undeniable dominance throughout the tournament. Despite facing strong competition, Jibrill emerged victorious with an impressive performance in both Winners Finals and Grand Finals.
Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3 Top Eight:
- Jibrill
- Evasion
- Kane Blueriver
- LiberalTerminator
- Mundank
- Spartan Throne
- RF
- Escalante
Mortal Kombat 11: NinjaKilla_212 Claims Victory
212NinjaKilla, known as NinjaKilla_212, etched his name in EVO history as the Mortal Kombat 11 champion. Displaying exceptional skill with the character Fujin, NinjaKilla_212’s journey to victory was marked by a remarkable comeback from Loser’s Brackets. Through intense competition, he emerged triumphant in both bracket stages, solidifying his place as an EVO champion.
Mortal Kombat 11 Top Eight:
- 212NinjaKilla
- Nicolas
- Scorpionprocs
- A F0xy Grampa
- TheMightyUnjust
- Xombat
- Rewind
- MakoraN
Dragon Ball FighterZ: HIKARI’s Fusion Triumph
HIKARI from America emerged as the EVO 2023 champion in Dragon Ball FighterZ. Despite some speculations about the game’s popularity, it attracted over 800 participants, outshining other titles. HIKARI’s mastery of the Vegito SSGSS, Gogeta SSGSS, and Android 18 lineup allowed him to secure the championship, showcasing the power of fusion.
Dragon Ball FighterZ Top Eight:
- HIKARI
- Yasha
- Nitro
- Gropis
- Kite
- Garlic Bread
- KJpixel
- INZEM
Melty Blood: Moai’s Niche Triumph
Moai emerged as the EVO 2023 champion in the niche title Melty Blood: Type Lumina. The Grand Finals witnessed a clash of Japanese talents, with Moai emerging victorious against DAI. Mastering the character Roa, Moai’s triumph showcased the depth of skill in this unique fighting game.
Melty Blood Top Eight:
- Moai
- DAI
- Jimmyjtran
- Jing
- KR_Wrestlingman
- ScrawtVermillion
- Lunar
- ronde
King of Fighters XV: Xiao Hai’s Dominance
Chinese fighting game player Xiao Hai demonstrated his expertise in both KOF and Street Fighter by claiming the EVO 2023 King of Fighters XV championship. With a strategic team lineup featuring Kyo, Isla, Krohnen, and B. Jenet, Xiao Hai showcased his prowess throughout the tournament, ultimately sealing victory.
King of Fighters XV Top Eight:
- Xiao Hai
- E.T.
- mok
- Wero Asamiya
- MadKOF
- Lacid
- FKang
- ZJZ
Reliving the Highlights
As the curtains draw on the Evolution Championship Series 2023, the memories of electrifying matches and triumphant moments remain. If you missed out on the action, you can relive the excitement by watching replays on the EVO YouTube and Twitch channels. Stay connected to Sportskeeda for the latest updates in the world of competitive fighting games.
