In a shocking finale to the ESL One Kuala Lumpur 2023, Azure Ray etched their name as champions by defeating Gaimin Gladiators. This was not just any win; it was a reverse-sweep that left viewers and casters alike in awe, showcasing the unpredictability and excitement inherent in the emerging Chinese Dota 2 team.

Image Credits: ESL

ESL One Kuala Lumpur 2023 Grand Finals: Azure Ray stage astonishing comeback

Last weekend, the stage was set for an intense battle in the grand finals of ESL One Kuala Lumpur 2023, with two formidable teams facing off.

Azure Ray, initially at a significant disadvantage with a 0:2 score, demonstrated resilience and strategic brilliance by pulling a comeback against their opponents. This comeback was not only surprising but also highlighted the team’s exceptional skill and mental fortitude. The best-of-five series led to a decisive victory for the Chinese squad, which is a testament to this newly-debuted roster’s prowess.

There hasn’t been a reverse sweep Grand Finals since the Singapore Major 2021.

Congratulations to Azure Ray; they deserve their victory!!! 👏 #ESLOne #RiseAboveFate pic.twitter.com/y89wfyrtnI

— ESL Dota2 (@ESLDota2) December 17, 2023

Ending the 2023 season on a high note

We will remember ESL One Kuala Lumpur 2023 finals for its dramatic narrative and skill displayed by Azure Ray, and the reminder that in Esports, no victory is guaranteed until the final moment.

In conclusion, the ESL One Kuala Lumpur 2023 finals was more than just a tournament; it was a story of unexpected twists, the fallibility of overconfidence, and the triumph of underdogs. Azure Ray’s victory serves as an inspiration and a reminder that in the world of competitive gaming, anything is possible.

Dyranchyo’s ballsy predictions goes south

Anticipation was high leading up to the finals. Gaimin Gladiators, confident and seemingly invincible, were the favorites. Their player, Anton “dyrachyo” Shkredov, made headlines with his bold prediction of a clean sweep against Azure Ray, confidently stating that the opposing team seemed underwhelming compared to theirs.

“Azure Ray look like sh!t, to be honest. I think we’re gonna destroy them 3:0 in the grand final,” said Anton “dyrachyo” Shkredov.

Gaimin Gladiators came close to realizing this goal, but they couldn’t.

The outcome of the finals brought a different narrative to light. Dyrachyo’s pre-match comments, which he claimed were for adding ‘more content’ by spicing up the grand finals, ended up letting the victory slip from Gaimin’s grasp. The defeat was a humbling experience for Dyrachyo and Gaimin Gladiators, who had to face the reality of their overconfidence.

In a post-match announcement on his Telegram group, Dyrachyo acknowledged the ‘disgraceful loss’ and his earlier statements but also emphasized the importance of accepting defeats as part of the competitive journey. His gracious acceptance of the outcome and appreciation for fan support added a layer of sportsmanship to the event.

Azure Ray wins the ESL One Kuala Lumpur 2023 (Image Credits: ESL)

Anyways, this victory is a milestone for Azure Ray and for the Chinese Dota 2 scene as a whole. It marked the first massive win for a Chinese team since AR and LGD Gaming won fourth and third-place at TI12. Azure Ray’s success catapulted them to the top of the ESL Pro Tour leaderboard, securing them a spot in the upcoming DreamLeague S22 alongside other participants in ESL One Kuala Lumpur, except Team Spirit. Spirit withdrew from the tournament despite having a direct invite.