When Riot Games officially named Lee “Faker” Sang-hyeok as the first player inducted into the League of Legends Hall of Legends, it was not only a historic moment but also a clear statement: eSports now has the power to build temples, carve statues, and immortalize legends just like any traditional sport. In 2025, the second name is about to be called, and three prominent figures are being most frequently mentioned by the community: Uzi, Deft, and Madlife.
Uzi: A legend who doesn’t need a throne
Uzi is the player who redefined the role of the marksman in the Chinese meta. He turned Vayne into a national symbol and carried RNG through some of its brightest years. In the eyes of fans, he was not someone who had never won a championship, but rather someone the world wanted to see win one. What fans regret most throughout Uzi’s journey is that he never won a World Championship. This is the bare minimum required to become a legend, but if we judge Uzi solely by titles, we overlook what truly made him famous: his cultural impact.
Uzi was a player renowned for his fierce fighting spirit, but he also faced numerous severe health issues, particularly with his arms and shoulders. These injuries had a major impact on his performance and career. After a series of serious injuries that left him unable to fully recover, Uzi announced his retirement in 2022, marking the end of a brilliant competitive career.
Uzi’s incomplete career, despite its challenges, has become a source of inspiration for countless fans.
Not winning a World Championship did not diminish the immense legacy Uzi left in League of Legends. His accomplishments, resilience, and impact on the global League of Legends community are undeniable. While Faker embodies omnipotence and control, Uzi is the roaring voice of an undying ambition. The Hall of Legends would be missing a crucial piece of its soul if it didn’t include someone who set the entire tournament ablaze with passion like him.
Deft: The vagabond retaking glory
Deft’s journey into the world of League of Legends began early, and he quickly established himself as one of South Korea’s finest AD carries. Throughout his career, playing for major teams like EDG, Samsung Blue, and especially DRX, he had the opportunity to compete in some of the most prestigious tournaments. Although he didn’t claim a World Championship title in the early years of his career, Deft consistently maintained exceptional performance and remained a key figure in every roster he joined. His resilience and skill made him a beloved figure in the eSports community.
“What’s important is a resilient heart.” Deft shared.
What stands out is that in 2022, Deft achieved his long-awaited dream by winning the 2022 World Championship with DRX, marking a major milestone in his career. The League of Legends community not only celebrated his victory but also marveled at his perseverance and tireless efforts over the past 10 years. This victory was more than just a title; it was a beautiful story of chasing dreams and overcoming countless challenges. Deft’s win symbolized the power of persistence and became an inspiring tale for many aspiring players.
In the 2022 World Championship, it was Deft who put an end to Faker’s championship streak.
With a long and emotional journey, Deft stands out not only for his individual skills but also for his strategic mindset and subtle leadership. He has become a living legend in the world of League of Legends, someone who is cherished and admired by the community. Not only has he achieved personal accolades, but he has also left an invaluable legacy for esports. Therefore, no matter what decision Hall of Legends makes, Deft will always be one of the irreplaceable legends in the hearts of League of Legends fans.
MadLife: Artist of close combats
MadLife is a legend of the perfect pickoffs. The most iconic moments of his career are his exceptional plays with Thresh, the champion he elevated to new heights with perfectly timed “Q” hooks. He didn’t just leave the audience in awe of his skills but also made opponents fearful every time they faced him.
While MadLife’s career may not have included an international title like many other legends, his influence on the League of Legends community is undeniable. Throughout his time with SK Telecom T1, Samsung Galaxy, and other top-tier teams, MadLife has been the ideal model of dedication and the vital role a support player plays in a team.
Although whether MadLife will be inducted into the Hall of Legends depends on several factors, it is clear that he helped usher in a new era for the support role in League of Legends. If the Hall of Legends is a place to honor unforgettable legends, MadLife is undoubtedly one of the names that could be called in the future.
Madlife – Team carrier in the supporter position
Not just a title
Faker being chosen as the first inductee into the Hall of Legends was not surprising, but the question of who will be the second carries much more significance than a simple vote. It represents how the global League of Legends community defines a legend: Is it the pinnacle of skill? The championship achievements? The emotional journey? Or perhaps a harmonious blend of all three? The Hall of Legends is not a place for mere winners; it is a place for those who cannot be forgotten.
Kate | Cameron Truong
