The first major European tournament of 2023 is in the books, and another $20,000 in prize money has been paid out!
Over 600 players rocked up to Antwerp to compete for the prestigious title, ending in a climactic finale. Pro Tour New Jersey winner Pablo Pintor defeated Sebastian Kleiner to take home the glory. You might recall Pablo landing the final nail in the coffin for Chane, Bound by Shadow - the mad lad has only gone and done it a second time, forcing Oldhim into retirement. Watch out folks, he might be coming for your favourite hero next!
Sebastian left an absolute bloodbath in his wake, massacring the field with Uzuri, Switchblade all the way to the finals.
Eight different countries were represented in the top cut, showcasing the diverse skills of Flesh and Blood players from across the globe. No matter where you're from or which hero you're playing - there's always a shot at that sweet gold foil, trophy, and cold hard cash.
1st: Pablo Pintor - Oldhim, Grandfather of Eternity
2nd: Sebastian Kleiner - Uzuri, Switchblade
3rd-4th: Gabe Sher - Lexi, Livewire
3rd-4th: George Melissakis - Lexi, Livewire
5th-8th: Piotr Krzempek - Oldhim, Grandfather of Eternity
5th-8th: Olli Saarinen - Rhinar, Reckless Rampage
5th-8th: Glen Van Roey - Lexi, Livewire
5th-8th: Stefano Meoni - Azalea, Ace in the Hole
While the Calling raged on, others delved into the Pits once more to fling some daggers. The Outsiders limited Battle Hardened sold out completely, as players fought for their place in a grueling top 8 draft. Eventually the Lone Ranger Francesco Giorgio shored up the winnings with Riptide!
1st: Francesco Giorgio - Riptide
2nd: Kevin Pennec - Uzuri
3rd-4th: Xiaoliang Yang - Arakni, Solitary Confinement
3rd-4th: Szymon WrzesieĊ-Kwiatkowski - Katsu
5th-8th: Nicolas Scandalis - Benji, the Piercing Wind
5th-8th: Pierre Canali - Arakni, Solitary Confinement
5th-8th: Jonas Benzarti - Katsu
5th-8th: Lucas Dutailly - Uzuri
And of course - there was no shortage of fun to be had with the several side events playing out across the weekend. Congratulations to cosplay contest winner Eser Unger for his brilliant young Riptide costume, taking the mystical Taylor promo hook, line, and sinker.
Another World Guide found a new home with the commoner tournament, which was flanked by Ira and Dash. The fast-paced, high impact format was a blast for all.
Desperate pleading, careful diplomacy, and joyful hollering could be heard from the Ultimate Pit Fight tables - the casual multiplayer format is growing quickly as a fun add-on to the regular competitive grind.
Artist Mateusz Wisniewski has quite the queue, as fans lined up to get posters, prints, playmats, and cards signed by the master.
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What an incredible event, made possible by amazing hosts Tournament Center, devoted judges, coverage staff, and community stream!
Thank you all for joining us in the Flesh and Blood for another absolute banger, and we hope to see you all again soon as the $1,000,000 Pro Play 2023 circuit continues!
