As the ESL One Kuala Lumpur 2023 regional qualifier looms on the horizon, Southeast Asian teams are actively vying for top-tier Dota 2 talents worldwide. And in the midst of relentless rumors swirling around the current transfer window, Blacklist Rivalry has astounded fans by successfully persuading their nation’s premier talents to return to the Southeast Asian Dota 2 competitive scene.
Earlier this month, Blacklist made waves by announcing a near-complete overhaul of their roster. Opting not to renew contracts for three players—Karl “Karl” Baldovino, Damien “kpii” Chok, and Carlo “Kuku” Palad—along with coaching staff members Adam “343” Shah and Kenny “Xepher” Deo, the organization signaled a bold strategic shift.
The revelation sparked widespread speculation that Blacklist would actively seek new players who had transitioned into free agency following The International 12 competition last month. There were even murmurs that the organization aimed to uphold its ‘Filipino Pride’ by recruiting Filipino players who were competing in regions beyond SEA—a speculation now substantiated.
Through their official social media account, the Agents formally introduced Kim “Gabbi” Santos and Abed “Abed” Yusop to their revamped roster. Both players have garnered widespread recognition for their impactful performances beyond the Southeast Asian circuit. Joining them is Juan “Carlo” Chua Manalo, set to assume the position 5 on the team.
Throughout this season, these three players have consistently showcased their prowess while representing their former teams. Gabbi played a pivotal role in Entity’s 5-6 finish in the DreamLeague Season 21 competition and secured victory in the TI12 Western Europe Qualifier. In the North America region, Abed was widely praised as a linchpin in the Shopify Rebellion team, claimed top spot finish in the Dota 2 Pro Circuit NA 2023 and emerged as the runner-up in DreamLeague Season 21.
Adding to this formidable lineup is Carlo, whose leadership skills were instrumental in maintaining Execration’s consistent presence in the top three positions during the DPC SEA 2023 and throughout the ongoing Major tournaments this season.
Blacklist fans can confidently anticipate a united effort from Gabbi, Abed, and Carlo as they aim to showcase their potential and potentially establish themselves as a dominant force in the upcoming competitive season. The team is undoubtedly eager to rebound following their underwhelming performance in the DPC SEA 2023.
Blacklist Rivalry: Kim “Gabbi” Santos, Abed “Abed” Yusop, Marc “Raven” Luis Fausto, Timothy “Tims” Randrup, Juan “Carlo” Chua Manalo.
