The Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) M6 World Championship has concluded spectacularly, with Fnatic ONIC Philippines (FNOP) securing their place in eSports history. The team delivered a masterclass in dominance, clinching the title without dropping a single series throughout the tournament. Their commanding 4:1 victory over Team Liquid Indonesia (TLID) in the Grand Finals at Axiata Arena, Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur, on December 15, was a testament to their unparalleled skill and teamwork. Malaysia’s Selangor Red Giants also made waves, finishing third in their M-series debut.
FNOP’s triumph marks the Philippines’ fifth consecutive M Series championship since their groundbreaking win at the M2 World Championship in 2021. This victory solidifies the region’s reputation as the “gold standard” in MLBB eSports. The team’s dominance throughout the tournament earned them the lion’s share of the US1 million (RM4,447,831) prize pool, further cementing their legacy.
Duane “Kelra” Pillas, FNOP’s Fold Laner, was leading the charge, and named the Grand Finals Most Valuable Player (FMVP). His extraordinary gameplay was complemented by stellar performances from teammates Jann Kirk “Kirk” Solcruz Gutierrez (EXP Laner), King Cyric “K1NGKONG” Perez (Jungler), FrinceMiguel “Super Frince” Ramirez (Mid Laner), Borris James “Brusko” Parro (Roamer), and Brian Milez “SpiderMilez” Santos (Roamer). Head Coach Anthony Dennis “Ynot” Senedrin and Assistant Coach Jeniel “YellyHaze” Bata-Anon were guiding them to glory.
The electrifying atmosphere of Axiata Arena was filled with over 7,000 passionate fans, while millions tuned in online to witness this historic moment. Esports Charts says the event peaked at 4.129 million concurrent viewers, making it the third most-watched M Series in history. The Group Stage viewership saw a staggering 66% increase compared to M5, showcasing the ever-growing popularity of MLBB.
The M6 tournament introduced significant innovations, including the Swiss format, designed to elevate the competitive standard among the world’s best teams. TikTok emerged as a key platform, contributing over 31% of total hours watched. The expanded co-streaming program also played a pivotal role in fostering community engagement, with community casting accounting for 24% of total viewership—a marked increase from last year’s 18%.
The next chapter of MLBB’s storied journey will unfold in Jakarta, Indonesia, where the M7 World Championship is set to take place in January 2026. Returning to the city after two years, this event promises to bring even more excitement to MLBB’s fervent fanbase.
In a year brimming with milestones, MLBB unveiled a striking new logo featuring flame-like details, symbolizing the unrelenting passion and competitive spirit of its players. The game, which has surpassed 1.5 billion registrations worldwide, continues to expand its horizons. January 2025 will see MLBB’s official launch in China, a move anticipated to introduce a new wave of skilled players and teams, potentially reshaping the global eSports landscape.
The 2025 roadmap for MLBB promises a packed calendar of events, including the MLBB Mid-Season Cup (MSC) and the MLBB Women’s Invitational (MWI), both of which will feature in the prestigious eSports World Cup (EWC). These events will bridge the two halves of the MLBB Professional League (MPL) circuits, ensuring a continuous stream of high-stakes competition from March through November. As the dust settles on M6, the world of MLBB eSports is poised for even greater achievements. With the game’s expanding global reach and its community’s unyielding support, the future is ablaze with possibilities. FNOP’s victory is not just a triumph for their team but a rallying cry for aspiring players everywhere: the gold standard is within reach, and the next chapter awaits.
