In the LPL first stage playoffs, the loser's bracket matches have commenced. When Top Esports competed against WE, they secured a 3:0 shutout victory. WE, first dominated by AL and then swiftly defeated by Top Esports, experienced a sharp decline in strength this year after changing their AD carry. On the other hand, Top Esports' showing was somewhat better than anticipated: Cream remained reliable as ever, 369 recovered his condition, and key to their success, bot laner Jiaqi was just about able to stabilize the bottom lane.

Even without their star player "Gege" returning, they managed to reach the playoffs and even took JDG to a full BO5. Next stage, if Gege comes back and they make some adjustments, possibly implementing a dual-AD rotation strategy, Top Esports' strength is likely to rise another level. However, the support Fengyue is genuinely holding them back a bit. If Top Esports aims for achievements or to contend for Worlds, they might need to scout for a new support in the upcoming transfer window, as Fengyue's mistake frequency is somewhat too high.

Uzi to host Uzi Cup in mid-month

Since resuming streaming, Uzi has been grinding ranked games. After recently reaching Master tier in both the Chinese server's top region and the Canyon, he frequently encountered trolls. In the past few days, he returned to the Korean server and has already climbed to Diamond II. During a recent live stream, Uzi dropped major news: after the first stage of LPL concludes, he will host the "Uzi Cup." Besides inviting various streamers, Uzi himself will form a team and compete.

Although it's a more entertainment-oriented tournament, this marks Uzi's return to the competitive stage. If teams are led by veterans like Baiyun, Zitai, or Crystal哥, it feels like the Uzi Cup champion will ultimately be Uzi's. Other retired players nowadays struggle even in Diamond tier, their skill level not on par with Uzi's. However, it's still uncertain whether he's just playing for fun or seriously assembling a strong team to compete.

BLG duo undergoes special training with GEN

After sweeping NIP and WBG, BLG has advanced to the winner's bracket finals. By defeating JDG, BLG can secure a spot in the Global Pioneer Tournament. BLG's post-Lunar New Year strength has noticeably improved compared to before, especially their bot lane duo. The synergy between Elk and ON has become much better. According to insider reports, after the holiday break, Viper specifically arranged for them to have 2v2 special training sessions with GEN's bot lane duo.

No wonder the bot lane duo's coordination has improved recently—they sought external help. To get Ruler's assistance, the two directly sent coffee remotely, transferring a week's worth of drink money. It must be said, Ruler is a man of loyalty. Having spent time in the LPL, even after returning, he's still willing to help LPL players. Such broad-mindedness is worthy of a world champion. Hopefully, Ruler can smoothly claim the championship in the finals.

LCS's "Indian God King" advances to finals

Both major Western LOL regions, LCS and LEC, have only one BO5 left before concluding their first stage. In the LEC, KC fought a hard five-game series against MKOI, narrowly winning to reach the finals. Their next match is against G2, with the winner claiming the championship and advancing to the Pioneer Tournament. Barring surprises, G2 should be the one heading to the Pioneer Tournament, as these two teams met in the first playoff round where G2 swept KC 2:0 to reach the winner's bracket finals.

Over in the LCS, LYON defeated SEN 3:1 in the loser's bracket finals to advance to the championship match, where they will face C9 for the title. Interestingly, LYON's current top laner is last year's emergency coach for 100T—yes, the protagonist of the famous "Traveling Dongbin" meme. LYON's original top laner couldn't play due to visa issues, so they signed the "Indian God King" as an emergency substitute. If they make it to the Pioneer Tournament, there's a chance to face BLG again.

Conclusion:

The last time Uzi competed was during the first "Old Man Cup." Later, due to excessive drama, he withdrew from participation. This time, hosting the Uzi Cup is likely officially endorsed, as this year's LPL viewership has been quite low. It's uncertain whether TheShy will participate in the Uzi Cup, but if he does, it would definitely be exciting to watch.

So, do you think Uzi can win the Uzi Cup championship?

Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!