🎮 BTK Faces Disqualification from EWC 2025 After Being Caught Playing HoK

The North American Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) champion team BTK (BloodThirstyKings) is at the center of controversy just weeks before the Esports World Cup (EWC) 2025 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The reason? Several BTK players were caught playing and streaming Honor of Kings (HoK)—a direct competitor to MLBB.

📸 What Really Happened?

The incident first gained attention on Reddit and X (Twitter), after footage surfaced showing BTK members streaming Honor of Kings, with some suggesting they were even sponsored or paid to promote the game.

This raised several red flags:

• Allegations of promoting a direct competitor to MLBB during the EWC season.

• Potential conflict of interest regarding sponsorships tied to Moonton, the publisher of MLBB.

While Honor of Kings is technically a different MOBA, it is seen as a major rival—especially in the esports scene.

⚖️ Did They Break the Rules?

According to EWC and NACT tournament regulations, players are generally prohibited from promoting or endorsing competing MOBA games during the active competitive season.

However, BTK and their supporters argue that the streams took place outside the tournament period, which may not be a direct violation of any rule. As of now, no official ruling or statement has been released by Moonton or the EWC committee.

🗣️ Community & Player Reactions

BTK members like Mobazane and Hoon have responded on livestreams and social media, stating they meant no harm and simply took part in HoK streams as a way to “make extra income” during the off-season.

Community opinions are split:

• Some fans support BTK, saying it wasn’t a serious offense.

• Others argue it reflects poorly on their commitment to the MLBB ecosystem.

⚠️ What’s at Stake?

• Possible disqualification from the Esports World Cup 2025.

• Reputational damage, especially among MLBB fans and sponsors.

• Sponsorship risks, particularly from Moonton-aligned brands.

If the case is deemed minor or a technical oversight, BTK may receive just a warning or fine. But if deemed a serious breach, disqualification is a real possibility.

🏁 Conclusion

BTK’s situation highlights the growing tension in esports between competing games, player freedom, and sponsor loyalty. While nothing is final yet, the potential fallout could be huge—for both the team and the MLBB community.

All eyes are now on Moonton and EWC organizers for the official verdict.