Victor "Punk" Woodley's Historic Street Fighter 6 Victory at EVO 2024
American Victor "Punk" Woodley etched his name into fighting game history by claiming the Street Fighter 6 championship at EVO 2024. This marks the first time in over two decades that an American has won a mainline Street Fighter title at this prestigious tournament.
A Thrilling Grand Finals Showdown
EVO 2024, a three-day spectacle showcasing the best in fighting game competition, concluded on July 21st. Woodley's path to victory was far from easy. He faced Adel "Big Bird" Anouche, a formidable opponent who battled his way through the losers' bracket. Anouche's 3-0 victory forced a reset, setting the stage for an unforgettable best-of-five rematch. The final match was a nail-biter, with both players tied at 2-2 before Woodley secured the championship with a decisive Cammy super move.
Punk's Journey to EVO Glory
Woodley's competitive fighting game career began during the Street Fighter V era, where he dominated the scene, achieving notable wins at various major tournaments before his 18th birthday. While he consistently performed at a high level, the coveted EVO and Capcom Cup titles remained elusive until his triumphant victory at EVO 2024. His previous third-place finish at EVO 2023 fueled his determination, culminating in this historic win. The final match against Anouche is already considered one of the greatest in EVO history.
A Global Stage for Fighting Game Talent
EVO 2024 showcased exceptional talent from around the globe. The tournament featured a diverse range of fighting games, with champions hailing from various countries:
- Under Night In-Birth II: Senaru (Japan)
- Tekken 8: Arslan Ash (Pakistan)
- Street Fighter 6: Victor "Punk" Woodley (USA)
- Street Fighter III: 3rd Strike: Joe "MOV" Egami (Japan)
- Mortal Kombat 1: Dominique "SonicFox" McLean (USA)
- Granblue Fantasy Versus: Rising: Aaron "Aarondamac" Godinez (USA)
- Guilty Gear -Strive-: Shamar "Nitro" Hinds (USA)
- The King of Fighters XV: Xiao Hai (China)
Woodley's victory underscores the intense competition and global reach of the fighting game community. His win is a significant moment for American Street Fighter players and a testament to his skill and dedication.
