❘ Revealed: 2023-01-31T13:18:41
❘ Up to date: 2023-01-31T13:27:28
MAD Lions have formally returned to Valorant with the signing of Darkish Ratio, a group that may compete in North America Challengers.
Darkish Ratio had been one of many six groups that earned spots in NA Challengers through the qualifiers after ending Third-4th within the first qualifying event. They did so with a miracle decrease bracket run that noticed them survive elimination matches in opposition to 99 Power, NSIC, Rat Assault and The Nation.
The group joins forces with MAD Lions simply in the future earlier than the beginning of the Challengers League, which options 12 North American groups. Dot Esports had reported on January 5 that negotiations between the gamers and MAD Lions had reached an deadlock previous to the primary qualifier.
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Darkish Ratio options 4 of the 5 gamers launched by DarkZero Esports when the organization took a step back from Valorant esports in July. Rounding out the roster is William ‘Will’ Cheng, who was a part of the 100 Thieves roster that competed at Valorant Champions 2022.
Former 100 Thieves participant Will has signed with MAD Lions
“VALORANT is the proper addition to our present esports groups and we’re excited to assist carry the League to the Canadian market,” mentioned Alyson Walker, Chief Business Officer at OverActive Media. “We’re assured increasing into VALORANT will drive important viewership whereas creating alternatives to interact with a brand new neighborhood of followers.”
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The announcement marks a shift in area for MAD Lions’ Valorant part. Beforehand, the group fielded a European squad with gamers like Domagoj ‘Doma’ Fancev and Alexandre ‘xms’ Forté. That group positioned second in VRL 2022 France Stage 2.
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After failing to enter Riot Video games’ associate leagues, MAD Lions put the Valorant part on maintain and allowed the gamers to entertain particular person provides.
MAD Lions are slated to face TSM on February 2 of their first match in Challengers Group B, which additionally consists of The Guard, M80, Disguised and OREsports. The highest 4 groups within the group will qualify for the Mid-Season Occasion.
“We’re thrilled to affix this unique group of gifted gamers and notable organizations for the NA League’s inaugural season,” mentioned Adam Adamou, Chief Technique Officer at OverActive Media. “VALORANT is as we speak’s fastest-growing esport, and we’re proud to have made it by way of the competitors.”
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MAD Lions Valorant roster:
- Justin ‘Trick’ Sears
- Adam ‘Ange’ Milian
- Anthony ‘ZexRow’ Colandro
- Taylor ‘drone’ Johnson
- William ‘Will’ Cheng
- Jornen ‘MoonChopper’ Nishiyama (coach)