Just when you think the issue of Mobile Legends’ “10 Greatest Player” award controversy couldn’t get any worse, we’re back at it again with an even messier situation.
After the recent podcast featuring Blacklist International’s OhMyV33Nus and Wise, many fans demanded an explanation from Moonton. After days of silence, Mobile Legends Esports’ official Facebook page finally made a statement following ACE’s announcement of his official withdrawal from the awarding system.
In behalf of the Omega fans, I stand with VeeWise.
Blame moonton, not the players!
— arla (@heystoopeed) November 9, 2023
However, instead of fans holding Moonton accountable for their mistake, the situation turned into a Myanmar vs. Philippines conflict as Burmese fans started attacking VeeWise, Blacklist International, and the Philippines altogether for what they perceived as ‘dragging’ ACE out of the running.
What’s going on, y’all??#blacklist #veewise pic.twitter.com/Y35cKyIliC
— tinaa 🌷 (@AnaknyaVeeWise) November 10, 2023
Where the Issue Started
It’s safe to say that fans were impatiently waiting for Moonton’s official statement after the mishap regarding their own rules and criteria.
For those new to this issue, Moonton announced that they would give awards to the ‘Greatest 10 Players’ and picked nominees from different teams and regions competing in the MLBB scene. However, fans quickly noticed that a known VeeWise duo was not included. Many fans agree that the two should automatically be included thanks to their numerous achievements and trophies won within the competitive Mobile Legends scene.
No matter how you look at it. Moonton removing VeeWise from the narrative of the 'Greatest Players of All Time' is MLBB shooting itself in the foot.
— Sh1n Boo (@sh1nboo) November 7, 2023
However, Moonton released a set of ‘Award Rules’ when announcing nominees from the Philippines. Even before it was known to the public that VeeWise was informed that they would not be included, it was already a strange situation as Moonton seemed to wash their hands of the controversy, anticipating that people would look for VeeWise in the list of nominees.
Rule #5
So why was VeeWise not included in the list of nominees? According to VeeWise and Blacklist International’s co-owner Tryke Gutierrez, it is because the duo has a partnership with Rivalry, a gambling or betting website.
@trykegutierrez Blacklist DOTA 2 team for 2024?
Rule #5 of the award states that the nominees should ‘not be involved in any illegal activities, including promotion or soliciting.’ Pretty simple and clear. The issue? Burmese former pro player ACE has been promoting a betting site, 1XBet.
So, does the rule only apply specifically to VeeWise, or was this an irresponsible implementation of rules where the company did not do its due diligence in researching every nominee’s history and qualifications? ACE retired from the MLBB pro scene – maybe rule #5 only applies if you’re still an active pro player?
Moonton’s Problematic Statement
‘We appreciate ACE’s cooperation and compliance with the award rules, and we are even more grateful for his outstanding contributions to the M Series, bringing unforgettable game memories to MLBB Esports fans.
Many misunderstandings have arisen due to the lack of investigation and negligence in operations, inconveniencing the fans and players, and we would like to apologize for this. We seek your understanding of ACE’s withdrawal. Please continue to support the other nominees based on their merit, contributions, and positive societal influence.’
Now, here’s why this statement is problematic. If Moonton had strictly implemented their rules from the beginning, ACE wouldn’t have had to cooperate and comply because he wouldn’t have been nominated in the first place.
This does not mean that ACE’s achievements should not be recognized; on the contrary, all nominees, including ACE and VeeWise, should be judged solely for their contribution to the MLBB scene. Of course, if the players did acts like game-fixing, crime, and other legitimate ‘illegal’ activities, that’s an automatic exclusion.
However, both Rivalry and 1XBET are legitimate businesses, properly registered with their respective countries, and assumed to pay the proper taxes. Gambling is a vice, not an illegal activity.
Moonton Refuses to Address VeeWise Directly
In the statement released regarding ACE’s withdrawal, it appears that Moonton still has animosity towards the duo. Yes, they apologized to the fans. Yes, they apologized to ACE. But how about VeeWise and Blacklist International’s supporters?
Why not acknowledge that more than anyone, the Agents were affected the most. Why not also acknowledge the contribution and accomplishments achieved by OhMyV33Nus and Wise?
Many fans believe that Moonton is still ‘salty’ about M3’s Estes skin and how much VeeWise’s influence has (1-Star review trend). While this is up for debate, it would have been better if the company also addressed VeeWise and ensured the fans knew that ACE’s withdrawal was due to the award’s rules and not because ACE’s name was name-dropped.
@belle_bttrfly #WeWantEstes ‼️‼️‼️ #fyp #fypシ #bellebttrfly #ohmyv33nus #ohmyveenus #v33wise #veewisefam #veewise #m3 #vwf #blacklist #blacklistinternational
Rules are Rules
At the end of the day, the issue started because Moonton failed to follow their own rules. They did all three players dirty. ACE did not deserve to be dragged into this mess. OhMyV33Nus and Wise don’t deserve the scrutiny, as they only asked Moonton to abide by their own rules.
“The Greatest Teams/Organizations”
In my opinion, I think the ’10 Greatest Players Awards’ is done very prematurely. Mobile Legends only started in 2016. The ‘Greatest Players’ awards on their 10th anniversary would have made more sense.
Additionally, this timing is questionable as the M5 world championship is approaching. They could have let the fans and teams focus more on this tournament rather than an awarding system that seems pointless.
Lastly, MLBB is a team game. One player may be the best out of everyone, but without a good set of team members, synergy, and management, that player will not shine on his own. I believe it shouldn’t be ‘The Greatest Players’ award but ‘The Greatest Teams/Organizations.’
So, will VeeWise retire from the MLBB pro scene?
OhMyV33Nus and Wise’s contribution to the MLBB community is undeniable. They have etched their names in their individual skills and as team players of the respective teams that have been a part of their careers.
The achievements they were able to get, more specifically, during their run with Blacklist International, are among the best underdog stories. Many doubted the team’s capabilities, but time and time again, they have shown that Blacklist isn’t just a hype train.
https://www.tiktok.com/@blacklistintl/video/7298350099451710725?lang=en
They are among the most consistent teams, with multiple back-to-back finals appearances. And while they fall one step short of a gold medal or a trophy, the Agents continue to be tough competitors in the MLBB scene.
Only time will tell if we will again see VeeWise on the land of dawn. But one thing is certain: they have gained loyal followers who will support their careers, Mobile Legends or not.
https://twitter.com/DanaSantos62984/status/1722895578890404124
Kinikilig ako for Veewise. Start of something great for my best duo pls!!!! 🖤 https://t.co/eZQpQ9wrp6
— majesty (@lindsyyyyyyyyy) November 10, 2023
https://twitter.com/jomster_/status/1722889076628705581
