Few names in esports carry as much recognition as Danil «Dendi» Ishutin. A champion of the inaugural The International, one of the faces of Dota 2, and the star of Valve’s documentary Free to Play, Dendi spent years building a legacy as a player. In 2020, he took on an entirely new challenge by launching B8 Esports, a Ukrainian organization created with the ambition of becoming a long-term competitor on the international stage.
While B8 initially entered esports through Dota 2, the organization has gradually evolved into a club best known for its Counter-Strike 2 division. Today, B8 represents a new generation of Ukrainian esports organizations–combining experienced leadership, young talent, and long-term development rather than relying on blockbuster signings.
The Beginning of B8 Esports
B8 Esports was officially founded in January 2020 by Danil «Dendi» Ishutin together with entrepreneur Ivan Mamchur, shortly after Dendi’s departure from Natus Vincere following nearly a decade with the organization.
For Dendi, creating B8 represented more than simply assembling another roster. His vision was to establish an independent esports brand that could develop players, compete internationally, and contribute to the continued growth of Ukrainian esports.
The organization’s name, B8, is pronounced «bait»–a reference familiar to competitive gamers–and quickly became associated with Dendi’s new chapter outside NAVI.
Starting with Dota 2
Given Dendi’s legendary status, it was no surprise that B8’s first competitive roster competed in Dota 2.
The team’s early years were challenging. Despite signing experienced players and participating in numerous online tournaments, B8 struggled to consistently qualify for elite international events. One difficult period in 2020 even saw the roster set an unwanted record for consecutive map losses before gradually rebuilding its competitiveness.
Although the organization never established itself among Dota 2’s elite, the division helped B8 gain valuable operational experience while building its own identity outside Dendi’s personal brand.
Expanding into Counter-Strike
A major turning point came in 2021, when B8 entered Counter-Strike by signing a young Ukrainian roster.
Unlike many organizations that rely on expensive international transfers, B8 focused on developing emerging talent. The club consistently maintained a strong Ukrainian core while competing across European tournaments and qualifiers.
Over the following years, Counter-Strike gradually became the organization’s flagship title as B8 invested increasing resources into building a competitive roster capable of reaching the biggest international events.
From Underdog to International Competitor
B8’s steady approach eventually began producing results. The organization earned recognition through strong performances in online circuits before becoming a regular participant in high-level European Counter-Strike competitions. Consistent improvement allowed the team to climb the international rankings and establish itself as one of Ukraine’s leading CS2 organizations.
Rather than chasing short-term success, B8 built its reputation through gradual player development, roster stability, and disciplined long-term planning.
Building More Than Just a Team
While competitive success remains a priority, B8 has also invested heavily in its identity as a modern esports brand.
Dendi’s global popularity gave the organization immediate international visibility, but B8 has continued expanding beyond its founder’s legacy. Through social media, video content, community engagement, and partnerships, the club has developed its own recognizable image while attracting millions of followers worldwide.
This combination of competitive ambition and brand development reflects a broader trend across modern esports, where organizations increasingly operate as entertainment companies rather than simply tournament participants.
A New Era for B8
Over time, B8 shifted much of its competitive focus toward Counter-Strike 2. While the organization previously fielded teams in Dota 2 and VALORANT, its current strategy centers primarily on CS2, where it continues to invest in player development and international competition.
The organization’s rise has demonstrated that sustainable growth is possible without massive budgets or superstar signings. Instead, B8 has emphasized patience, scouting, and creating opportunities for promising players to develop on larger stages.
B8 Esports Today
Today, B8 stands as one of Ukraine’s fastest-growing esports organizations.
Founded by one of the most influential players in esports history, the club has successfully evolved beyond its original identity as «Dendi’s team.» With a growing international fanbase, a competitive Counter-Strike 2 roster, and a clear long-term vision, B8 continues strengthening its position within the global esports ecosystem.
Although the organization’s biggest achievements may still lie ahead, B8 has already proven that a club built on passion, resilience, and player development can establish itself among the most recognizable names in Ukrainian esports.
