Team Liquid signs former Dota 2 rivals in post-TI roster shuffle

Team Liquid has confirmed the addition of two of Dota 2’s most recognizable names, Ace and tOfu, marking the end of one of the most intense rivalries in recent esports history.

The news was officially revealed on Oct. 9, through Team Liquid’s social channels, accompanied by the post: “Two players always on the same wavelength, now flowing as Liquid.”

For years, Ace and tOfu were central figures at Gaimin Gladiators, the team that repeatedly clashed with and often triumphed over Liquid between 2022 and 2024. Together, they helped secure six major finals victories against Liquid, including a legendary streak of three consecutive Dota 2 Majors in 2023.

Speaking on the move, Ace admitted that joining his longtime rivals felt surreal: “Yeah, it is pretty strange because they’ve been kind of like our nemesis for many years. But I always respected Liquid a lot, so it’s also very cool.”

The transition comes after a turbulent offseason for Team Liquid, who placed 9th to 13th at The International 2025. The organization recently parted ways with veteran captain Insania, who announced his retirement, and offlaner SabeRLight-, who has since joined AVULUS on loan. Ace takes over the offlane duties in the new roster, while tOfu steps into the position five support role previously held by Insania.

For the two veterans, this move also represents the continuation of a five-year partnership that began with Hellbear Smashers before their rise at Gaimin Gladiators. Reflecting on the move, tOfu shared: “It also seemed like Ace and I wouldn’t play together anymore. Not because we didn’t want to, but because the opportunities just didn’t arise for us.” The reunion gives them another chance to showcase the synergy that has defined their success at Gaimin Gladiators.

Ace believes his strategic mindset will help elevate Liquid’s playstyle, saying, “Generally, in this roster, I think there is some need for more tactical stuff and control over the draft. People are kind of laid back, just playing at a really high skill level and really good individually.”

Meanwhile, tOfu voiced his optimism for the team’s potential: “I feel strongly positive about this roster and its future because everyone is highly skilled, we get along well, have a good mindset, and we are all mature players who can easily figure things out.”

Both players acknowledged that integrating into an established roster takes time. “I think there’s still a lot to catch up on and discuss to determine how we want to play, what we want to play, how we communicate in the game,” tOfu explained when discussing their early preparation.

Their first major test together comes at BLAST Slam IV, set to run from Oct. 14 to Nov. 11 in Singapore, featuring 12 teams vying for a $1 million prize pool. This move signals a new era for Team Liquid as they aim to rebuild their championship momentum.