Jian “Uzi” Zi-Hao has always been a player held in the highest regard. Touted as one of the most talented (and unlucky) AD carry players in the world, Uzi’s skill has never been questioned. His dream to take home an LPL title is one that he had chased throughout his storied career. After years of hard work and dedication, Uzi finally made his dream come true as he hoisted the LPL Championship trophy during the Spring 2018 LPL Finals.
RNG luck
Sometimes, world class skill means nothing when faced with a streak of bad luck. Before the LPL Spring 2018 Finals, Uzi was never able to win an LPL title. Despite numerous first place finishes in the regular season under Royal Never Give Up, Uzi never could seem to get over the final hurdle. Uzi was seen, and would always seem to be seen, as a player with great talent and potential that was overshadowed by his tendency to choke when the opportunity for success came calling. Before the Spring 2018 Finals, Uzi and RNG came in second place every single split since Summer 2016. With so many opportunities missed, the title of LPL Champion always seemed to be out of reach for Uzi.
Coronation
Uzi’s bad luck finally ran out this season with his 3-1 victory over Edward Gaming. The first game in the series actually ended in a swift loss for RNG. While RNG attempted to protect their VIP, Edward Gaming was able to constantly make picks on Uzi and capitalize through swift map rotations. Though it was a bad defeat for RNG, there was still plenty of room to make a recovery. Down but not out, RNG then took the next two games of the series in dominant fashion, thanks in part to Uzi’s ability to set up and win key fights. With Games 2 and 3 out of the way, the series quickly moved on to a crucial Game 4.
Game 4 meant match point for RNG. Game 4 meant redemption for Uzi.
All was on the line in a game that EDG seemed keen on winning. EDG possessed control of the game, and they looked to cement it through securing Baron. Royal Never Give Up certainly stood by their name as they made their way to contest. Stopping EDG was RNG’s main priority, as a Baron-powered EDG would most likely mean game. A tremendous engage by Liu “Mlxg” Shi-Yu and Yan “Letme” Jun-Ze managed to catch their opponent completely off guard. Through their explosive teamwork, RNG was able to swipe the Baron, and the game, from their rivaled opponent. From there, EDG seemed to fall down like a set of carefully placed dominoes. With momentum and Baron on their side, RNG stormed the base of Edward Gaming and took the series.
Elated, RNG came together in a heartwarming embrace. Their years of hard work and sacrifice had built to this moment. Smiles were everywhere as the team made their way to the center stage. In a historic moment, Uzi raised the coveted LPL Cup high above his head. Finally, Uzi could call himself a champion.
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Featured Image and images courtesy of LoL Esports Photos, LoL Esports Flickr, and PentaQ