Filipino Dota 2 star Carlo “Kuku” Palad is on the hunt for a new team following his departure from Blacklist International. Kuku’s exit comes after a season of underwhelming performances with Blacklist, where he could not steer the team beyond a solitary Dota Pro Circuit (DPC) Major appearance.
Kuku, known for his aggressive playstyle and strategic acumen, played with Blacklist for the entirety of the previous season. However, it was a year marked more by its disappointments than its triumphs. The team’s only major outing was at The Bali Major 2023, where they finished in a lackluster 13th-14th position.
In a last-ditch effort to salvage the season, Kuku and Blacklist International competed in The International 2023 – Southeast Asia Qualifier. Despite a spirited performance, they fell short in the Grand Finals, losing to Team SMG and securing a second-place finish. This defeat effectively ended their campaign and hopes for The International 2023.
Blacklist International Down to Two Members After Kuku’s Departure
Kuku announced that he was Looking for a Team on Twitter and that he was looking to play as either the Position 5 player or as a coach.
Following Kuku’s departure, Blacklist International’s roster has dwindled to just two members: Polo “Raven” Fausto and Timothy John “TIMS” Randrup. The organization had previously released Karl “Karl” Baldovino, Damien “kpii” Chok, and Kenny “Xepher” Deo in October 2023, signaling a major restructuring.
As the SEA Dota 2 esports landscape continues to evolve, teams are constantly on the lookout for players who can bring a mix of talent and experience. Kuku, with his extensive career and deep understanding of the game, is a valuable asset in this regard. His availability is likely to spark interest among several top-tier teams looking to strengthen their rosters for the upcoming season.
For Blacklist International, the road ahead is uncertain. With a significantly reduced roster, the organization faces the challenge of rebuilding and finding players who can fill the void left by Kuku and his former teammates. The upcoming DPC season will be crucial for them as they strive to regain their footing in the competitive scene.
As for Kuku, the next chapter of his Dota 2 career remains unwritten. With his wealth of experience and a proven track record, he stands as a coveted free agent in the esports market.
