Updated on August 15, 1:05 p.m. (GMT+8): Added additional information about MSC rules.
The absence of Johnmar “OhMyV33nus” Villaluna and Danerie James “Wise” Del Rosario from Blacklist International’s roster for MPL PH Season 12 caught everyone by surprise.
This season holds immense significance, as it determines which teams will earn coveted spots in the upcoming M5 World Championship, the biggest MLBB tournament of the year.
Although the organization did not initially disclose the reasons behind the dynamic duo’s decision to step back, OhMyV33nus has since unveiled the reason behind their one-season hiatus.
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OhMyV33nus and Wise initially wanted to take an earlier break, but this happened
In a recent podcast featuring V33nus, Wise, and former ONIC PH ambassador, Arvin “Toriyama” Recio, the duo revealed their initial intention to participate in Season 12 and take a break in MSC 2023 instead.
“Season 11 really drained us,” she said. “So, as we headed into the playoffs, I made up my mind that regardless of the outcome—even if we secured a spot in MSC—Wise and I needed a break at MSC 2023.”
Their perseverance paid off, leading them to clinch a spot in the grand finals against ECHO, where they secured a slot in the mid-season tournament.
She and Wise discussed with Blacklist CEO Tryke “Tryke” Gutierrez, and the coaching staff right after the conclusion of the MPL PH Season 11 grand final about their proposed break.
The consensus was that both players could step back for MSC, with Blacklist Academy members stepping in to fill the void. However, an unexpected turn of events surprised them.
“When we communicated our MSC plans to Sir Joy (a Moonton representative),” she shared, “he responded with a chuckle, reiterating that altering the lineup wasn’t permissible.”
Moonton had informed every team ahead of MPL PH Season 11 that rosters are locked. This means that any team that qualifies for MSC 2023 will have to compete with their MPL PH lineup.
As a result, V33nus and Wise had to participate in MSC and move their break to Season 12 instead.
Blacklist International finished second in MSC 2023 following an intense grand final showdown against ONIC Esports.
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