[EVO Japan 2025] Interview with WBG RB MenaRD, Winner of Street Fighter 6! "Struggled Against Ryukichi," "Kobayan is the World's Strongest Zangief User"

The match against Ryukichi in the Winner's Finals was tough. He was moving very well against my Zangief, so I changed my character to Blanka and barely managed to win. My spot in EWC 2025 was also on the line, and it was undoubtedly the most difficult match.

I'm very, very happy. EVO Japan is one of the most important tournaments, and being able to win spots in EWC 2025 and Capcom Cup 12 holds very great meaning for me. That's why I can play with peace of mind this year and concentrate on improving my mastery. Right now, I'm still immersed in the afterglow right after the tournament, but I want to use my time from now on to organize my future plans.

I felt like his mental state was more stable than last year, and it was a very difficult match. Last year, I felt like he was nervous, but this year, his movements were as if he had great confidence. Although I didn't let him have his way as a result, there's no doubt that he was in a better mental state than last year.

Kobayan is undoubtedly the world's strongest Zangief user. And in Japan, which is his main battleground, there are also Itabashi Zangief and Jr., and I think I'm lagging behind all of them. Also, I'd probably lose to Zangief_bolado from Brazil. In order to continue using Zangief, I need to learn from all of them and become even stronger.

Zangief is very strong, but he was weakened mid-season. I need to adapt to that adjustment, and I need more time to master this character. As was the case in the match against Ryukichi this time, a small mistake can be fatal. Either practice only him, or practice one more character. If I prepare at least 3 or more characters as cards in hand, I can't use Zangief effectively. He's that difficult of a character.

Kilzyou. He is a truly strong player.

I couldn't show the performance I wanted at EWC 2024. I intend to do my very best this year.