Buzz
Tensions are running high at RNG, from the coaching staff to the players and even the fans.
The 2021 season was a resounding success for the Chinese LoL scene. Royal Never Give Up dominated MSI 2021 after defeating DWG KIA - the representatives from the fierce rival LCK. EDward Gaming then went on to conquer DK to claim the Worlds 2021 title. LPL completely dominated the LoL scene in the dynamic year of 2021.
While EDG can be satisfied with their championship in the biggest tournament in the LoL community, RNG, the traditional powerhouse of LPL and the reigning MSI 2021 champions, is not happy at all. After MSI 2021, the team went through a rollercoaster in the early Summer of 2021. They faced controversy when former player Mlxg accused them of owing him livestream wages for an extended period. At Worlds 2021, RNG struggled and was eliminated in the Quarterfinals, losing to EDG in the LPL derby.
For RNG, not winning a tournament they participate in equals failure, especially as they proudly adhere to the 'only use domestic players' philosophy. In the last offseason, RNG bid farewell to Cryin, considered a 'weak link.' Xiaohu returned to the mid-lane, and RNG acquired Bin - a former Weibo Gaming star for the top lane, along with bringing in coach KenZhu, a member of EDG's coaching staff that triumphed in Iceland recently.
Recently, RNG has shown fans the extent of their determination to dominate every competition. Specifically, according to Xiaohu's revelation, Coach KenZhu will not allow them a holiday if the win rate in training is below 75%. Therefore, players must try their hardest. This has excited RNG fans, but some have expressed concerns as Coach KenZhu brings the 'maximum try-hard' mentality from EDG to RNG.
Xiaohu shares that the coach has set a KPI of a 75% win rate in training to get the upcoming holiday (Lunar New Year), otherwise, they will have to train even more rigorously
Additionally, there is an opinion that bringing Xiaohu to the mid-lane may reduce his effectiveness as well as RNG's. The reason is that Xiaohu has shown tremendous talent at the top lane, while in the mid-lane, he is only performing at an average level.
However, overall, everyone must admit that RNG is truly in need of a 'military order.' They have been facing defeats from the Summer of 2021 to Worlds 2021. Therefore, RNG must quickly readjust to enter the new season. Especially when other teams have strengthened their line-ups with quality additions, posing a significant obstacle on RNG's journey.
