Dota 2 – Talon Esports Announces New Roster, Led by Fly

Talon Esports is to compete in Dota 2 for the first time, with the organization having unveiled its roster this week. Their lineup is led by ex-Evil Geniuses captain “Fly”, with the SEA team having also signed “Gabbi” and “kpii”. Many were taken by surprise as to Talon’s ability to attract such names, with the org clearly looking to do more than simply make up the numbers.

Based in Hong Kong, Talon Esports are currently best known for their League of Legends and Overwatch outfits, while the org also competes in Arena of Valor, Street Fighter and Tekken. They will now compete in the Dota Pro Circuit SEA scene, with their new players operating out of Manila, Philippines.

What Talon Esports Has Said On the Announcement

Speaking on the announcement, Talon Esports CEO, Sean Zhang, stated that: “Dota 2 has been a game that we have long sought to enter and finally in 2021, we have arrived. The Philippines will be the home of our new squad and we look forward to embracing the passionate fan base of the country. We have put together a supremely talented roster with the goal of contending for majors and of course the International next year.”

Former TNC Predator duo Gabbi and kpii will team up with Fly, with the Talon Dota lineup being made up Rafli Fathur “Mikoto” Rahman and Brizio Adi “Hyde” Putra Budiana, both of whom arrive from BOOM Esports. Fly is the most high-profile signing, with the Israeli pro having spent four years with EG.

How Fly Made His Name in the SEA Dota Scene

During his time with EG, Fly helped the org reach The International on three occasions, with the team having finished TI8 in third position. EG ultimately decided to make roster changes after a disappointing performance at TI10, having previously finished as runners-up at both Majors.

Meanwhile, BOOM and TNC both struggled to make an impact last season, meaning that they missed out on TI10. It remains to be seen as to how quickly Talon’s roster will be able to gel, however the potential is there for all to see. We are likely to see them compete in the open qualifiers, as they aim to secure their place in the DPC lower division.

However, some have suggested that the org will look to purchase a franchise spot from elsewhere, with Valve having not made any comment on whether such a deal is allowed. We will deliver further announcements as and when we get them. However, with the Dendi and B8 situation that arose earlier in the year, it is safe to say that anything can happen. It also remains to be seen as to who will replace Fly at Evil Geniuses.