MenaRD Criticizes Capcom’s Pay-Per-View Plan for Capcom Cup XII

Capcom’s announcement that part of Capcom Cup XII, set for March 2026, will follow a pay-per-view (PPV) model has drawn heavy criticism, particularly from international fans and players outside Japan.

One of the most vocal opponents has been MenaRD, the only two-time Capcom Cup champion. In a statement responding to Capcom’s post on social media, MenaRD expressed disappointment with the decision. While acknowledging that PPV might be more acceptable in Japan, he argued that the wider fighting game community is not yet ready for such a shift.

Mena warned that the move could alienate regions that are already financially disadvantaged, such as Latin America and Africa. Speaking from personal experience, he noted that if PPV barriers had existed when he was starting out, he may never have been able to join the FGC or become the player he is today.

Many fans and players echoed MenaRD’s concerns, viewing the decision as another sign of Capcom isolating the Japanese scene from the rest of the world. Others attempted to rationalize the move. Prominent community figure HiFight suggested that Capcom’s esports division, which has reportedly operated at significant financial losses in recent years, may be looking for ways to recoup costs.

Still, critics argue that esports events like the Capcom Cup should be treated primarily as promotional tools for Street Fighter 6, the second-best-selling entry in the franchise behind Street Fighter II. In their view, locking parts of the event behind a PPV model risks hurting global viewership at a time when the community is still growing.

While the long-term effects remain to be seen, early speculation suggests the change could boost domestic popularity in Japan but reduce international engagement, particularly in lower-income regions.

Capcom Cup XII is scheduled to take place in March 2026.