The StarLadder Budapest Major is just around the corner, but before we get there, we’ve got one last tier 1 event to enjoy. Just make sure you avoid Passion UA games - there’s probably not much enjoyment to be had there.

BLAST Rivals 2025 S2 will be kicking off this Wednesday in Hong Kong, featuring a solid team lineup: FURIA, Vitality, paiN, The MongolZ, Spirit, Falcons, TYLOO, and the clown in the middle of the army squad.

In Group A, made up of The MongolZ, Passion UA, Spirit, and Falcons, we’ll start things off with a donk vs. kyousuke matchup that is always fun to watch. As for the likely outcomes, it’s hard to look past The MongolZ, Spirit, and Falcons making it through.

Out of curiosity, do you remember when Passion UA’s last played an official match? Yeah, we didn’t either. It was a 2-1 victory over EYEBALLERS at Urban Riga Open Season 1, all the way back on September 30th. This is going to be a trainwreck.

When it comes to Group B, things get a bit more interesting. The opening matchups - FURIA vs. paiN and Vitality vs. TYLOO - set up a strong possibility of a FURIA vs. Vitality rematch in the upper final. You can bet apEX and the boys can’t wait to get revenge after what went down in Chengdu.

The potential lower final between paiN and TYLOO could also get spicy. While paiN are the favourites on paper, it wouldn’t be shocking to see TYLOO pull off the upset and secure a Playoff spot.

Oh, and just one more tiny detail. Most of us won’t get to watch a damn thing, since it’s yet another tournament in a god-forsaken timezone. We’re really starting to feel for you Aussies.