GO1 Steps Away From Competition to Focus on Recovery

Esports World Cup 2025 Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves champion GO1 has announced a sabbatical from competitive esports following recent health issues.

GO1 was forced to withdraw from the 2026 Esports World Cup, which was eventually won by Dark Angel, after competing on the opening day. His withdrawal came after he collapsed from heatstroke while on the way to the competition venue.

Now back in Japan, GO1 released a statement saying he is stepping back from professional competition for an extended period to focus on his health so he can return in stronger shape for the rigors of competition.

His translated statement reads: "Good morning. I safely returned to Japan last night and am currently resting at home.

"During my stay in France, I caused you all a great deal of worry, and I am truly sorry for that.

"After discussions with the team and my family, I have decided to focus entirely on recuperation for the time being, so I will be withdrawing from all the tournaments I had planned to participate in in the near future.

"To everyone who was looking forward to it, and to all the related parties, I am truly sorry for causing you repeated worry and inconvenience.

"Please allow me to take a little break now, so that I can return before everyone in good spirits once again!"

This means GO1 will not be competing in either Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves or Street Fighter 6 for the time being. He had already withdrawn from this season's Street Fighter League Japan to focus entirely on Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves, so his sabbatical will not affect those plans. However, it does hurt his chances of qualifying for next year's Capcom Cup and also puts his participation in this year's SNK World Championship in jeopardy, as he has yet to qualify for the event, which takes place in November.

It is hoped that GO1 makes a speedy recovery, and he will certainly be missed during his time away.