Team Liquid has announced the acquisition of two of the most prominent figures in Dota 2, Ace and tOfu, marking the conclusion of a fierce rivalry in recent esports history.
The confirmation came on October 9 via Team Liquid’s official communication channels, with a message stating: «Two players always on the same wavelength, now flowing as Liquid.»
For several years, Ace and tOfu were integral to Gaimin Gladiators, a team that frequently faced off against Liquid and often emerged victorious between 2022 and 2024. They played pivotal roles in securing six major finals wins over Liquid, including an impressive run of three consecutive Dota 2 Major titles in 2023.
In reflecting on this transition, Ace shared his thoughts, stating it feels surreal to join his long-standing competitors: «Yeah, it is pretty strange because they’ve been kind of like our nemesis for many years. But I always respected Liquid a lot, so it’s also very cool.»
This transition follows a challenging offseason for Team Liquid, who finished in the 9th to 13th position at The International 2025. The organization recently parted ways with their veteran captain Insania, who announced his retirement, and offlaner SabeRLight-, who has since moved to AVULUS on loan. Ace will now handle the offlane responsibilities, while tOfu will take on the position five support role previously occupied by Insania.
For both players, this move signifies the continuation of a five-year collaboration that started with Hellbear Smashers before their success at Gaimin Gladiators. tOfu noted, «It also seemed like Ace and I wouldn’t play together anymore. Not because we didn’t want to, but because the opportunities just didn’t arise for us.» Their reunion is an opportunity to display the synergy that has characterized their success in the previous team.
Ace is confident that his strategic approach will enhance Liquid’s gameplay, stating, «Generally, in this roster, I think there is some need for more tactical stuff and control over the draft. People are kind of laid back, just playing at a really high skill level and really good individually.»
tOfu expressed his enthusiasm regarding the team’s potential: «I feel strongly positive about this roster and its future because everyone is highly skilled, we get along well, have a good mindset, and we are all mature players who can easily figure things out.»
Both players recognized that acclimating to an established team requires time. tOfu elaborated on their early preparations, saying, «I think there’s still a lot to catch up on and discuss to determine how we want to play, what we want to play, how we communicate in the game.»
The first significant challenge for them as a team will take place at BLAST Slam IV, scheduled from October 14 to November 11 in Singapore, where 12 teams will compete for a $1 million prize pool. This transition heralds a new chapter for Team Liquid as they strive to regain their championship stature.
