Ulsan Defends Title at Tekken 8 Esports World Cup 2025

The Tekken 8 branch of the Esports World Cup 2025 (EWC 2025) concluded on August 17, 2025, marking one of the biggest Tekken esports events of the year. With a massive $1 million prize pool, the tournament brought together 32 top players from around the world after a three-month qualification period that started at EVO Japan 2025.

Ulsan’s Journey to Defend His EWC Tekken 8 Crown

Despite entering as the defending champion, Ulsan from South Korea was not heavily favored due to his underwhelming performances in early 2025 major Tekken 8 tournaments. However, he shocked fans with a brilliant run, proving once again why he remains among the world’s best.

• Ulsan dominated Group Stage 1, sweeping all matches.

• In Group Stage 2, he suffered an early 2-0 loss to fellow Korean Kkokkoma, pushing him into the lower bracket.

• Facing EVO Vegas 2025 champion Arslan Ash, Ulsan narrowly advanced with a 2-1 victory.

• In a rematch against Kkokkoma, Ulsan redeemed himself with another close 2-1 win, securing a spot in the Top 8 playoffs.

From there, Ulsan’s momentum only grew. Using his main character Dragunov, he swept through all opponents and reached the Grand Finals against fellow Korean LowHigh (Bryan specialist). Ulsan dominated the final series with a convincing 5-2 win, successfully defending his EWC Tekken 8 championship title.

Prize Money and Records

By claiming first place, Ulsan earned $250,000, a prize larger than the combined winnings of most Tekken 8 majors earlier this year. Combined with his 2024 EWC title, Ulsan is now recognized as the highest-earning Tekken 8 pro player in the world.

Tekken 8 EWC 2025 Top 8 Final Standings

1. Ulsan – Champion ($250,000)

2. LowHigh

3. CBM

4. JeonDDing
   5-8. Mulgold, Pinya, Qudans, Chikurin