Jul 27, 2026.
Every competitor stepping onto the Esports World Cup stage is chasing a place in history, whether by defending a title or building a new legacy. These are the players to watch in Week 4 of EWC 26.
South Korean Overwatch star Kim “Proper” Dong-hyun enters the OWCS Midseason Championship at EWC 26 as one of the tournament favorites. After winning the title and earning Finals MVP with Team Falcons last year, Proper made a blockbuster offseason move to ZETA DIVISION.
The hyperflex DPS immediately found success with his new squad, dominating the Korean circuit throughout the first half of 2026. ZETA DIVISION's only defeats came in the upper and lower bracket finals of the OWCS 2026 Champions Clash. Now, Proper returns to the Esports World Cup looking to defend his title and prove he can once again be the difference-maker on the biggest stage.
Another star making a high-profile team switch is Hunter “Shifty” Pendygraft. After winning the inaugural Warzone title at the Esports World Cup and earning MVP honors with Team Falcons in 2024, Shifty joined local rivals Twisted Minds earlier this year, the reigning Call of Duty: Warzone at EWC champions.
Widely regarded for his in-game leadership, elite gunskill, and ability to deliver in clutch moments, Shifty now looks to help Twisted Minds defend their title. Making his third Esports World Cup appearance, he has the chance to become the first two-time Call of Duty: Warzone champion at EWC.
Chinese fighting game legend Zeng “Xiao Hai” Zhuojun returns to the Esports World Cup looking to make history. After an early 9th-16th place exit in FATAL FURY: City of the Wolves at EWC 26, the veteran enters Street Fighter 6 with extra motivation.
As the two-time defending EWC Street Fighter 6 champion, Xiao Hai has the chance to accomplish something no player has before: win the title three years in a row.
Aurora Gaming mid laner Ahmet “Rosa” Taha Batır enters the MLBB Mid Season Cup Playoffs as one of the tournament's biggest stars. Rosa led Aurora's dominant Group Stage campaign, highlighted by a convincing 2-0 sweep over defending champions Team Liquid PH. His standout performance on Rafaela played a key role in shutting down the reigning world champions.
Heading into the Knockout Stage, Rosa's mechanical versatility, map control, and draft flexibility make him Aurora Gaming's biggest win condition and one of the key players to watch as the team chases EWC 26 glory.
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