European esports organisation G2 Esports has partnered with Philippine-based esports and gaming organisation Blacklist International.
The two companies have created a joint League of Legends: Wild Rift team called G2 Blacklist that will operate out of the Philippines. The new team already has a roster as well as a visual identity that reflects both G2 Esports and Blacklist design cues.
Blacklist International is the competitive arm of Tier One Entertainment, one of the fastest-growing esports and gaming brands in Southeast Asia. Founded in 2019, Blacklist is most known for its success in Mobile Legends: Bang Bang. The team won the M3 World Championship and placed second at M4 this year.
Apart from Mobile Legends, Blacklist has rosters in Call of Duty Mobile and Dota 2, with the latter being through a joint venture with Esports betting company Rivalry.
According to Tier One Entertainment, the partnership with G2 Esports is part of a strategy prioritising partnerships with high-profile organisations that share its vision. G2, as one of the world’s most-known organisations, will enter the SEA market, and Tier One will get to work with a high-profile partner within the region.
The new team will be based in the Philippines and is set to compete in the Wild Rift League Asia. The decision to create a Wild Rift roster coincides with the launch of the mentioned WRL Asia – a league created after Riot Games announced Wild Rift’s esports ecosystem will focus on Asia.
Tryke Gutierrez, CEO of Tier One Entertainment, commented on the news: “G2 Blacklist is a “1 + 2 = 4” type of partnership. Two of the most popular and competitive teams in their respective regions working together is something truly special.
“I think this is a game-changer not just for Wild Rift esports, but for the industry as a whole. Alongside G2, we’re looking forward to bringing the Blacklist International brand to new audiences around the world.”
