REJECT Dominate SFL Japan as Capcom Teases Major Expansion

Street Fighter League Japan came to a dramatic conclusion on January 31, 2026, closing out another landmark season for competitive Street Fighter 6. While the decision to place the Grand Final behind a paywall drew criticism from some fans, the event itself proved to be a major success both competitively and in terms of announcements.

REJECT Claim Their Second SFL Japan Title

The headline result saw REJECT capture their second Street Fighter League Japan championship, dismantling Crazy Raccoon in emphatic fashion. The final scoreline read 100–20, with REJECT winning all three sets and dropping just two individual matches across the entire Grand Final.

This victory marks REJECT’s third Grand Final appearance in the last three years, underlining their status as one of Japan’s most consistent teams. It was also a moment of redemption for LeShar, who had previously spoken about feeling responsible for the team’s loss in an earlier season. Visibly emotional after the win, LeShar thanked his teammates and fans before being named Grand Final MVP, having defeated every opponent he faced on the day.

Anchors Daigo Umehara and Fuudo also delivered when it mattered, each securing crucial wins in their respective matches. With the title secured, REJECT will now represent Japan at the Street Fighter League World Championship, where they will face Ninjas in Pyjamas and Bandits next month.

Capcom Announces Street Fighter League Asia

Alongside the conclusion of the season, Capcom revealed long-anticipated plans to launch Street Fighter League Asia, scheduled to begin in 2027.

The announcement comes as little surprise given the depth of talent across the Asian region. Previous seasons have already demonstrated this strength, most notably when UYU claimed Street Fighter League US with a roster featuring Oil King, Xian, NL, and DCQ, a result that stunned many at the time.

The creation of SFL Asia signals Capcom’s intent to further globalize the league structure and provide more regional pathways into top-level competition.

Women’s League and Lower Age Requirement Teased

Capcom also hinted at the possibility of a women’s Street Fighter League, though details remain scarce. Key questions remain unanswered, including whether the league would be Japan-only or open to international competitors. The interest is certainly there, with notable female players worldwide such as Nyampi, who narrowly missed Evo Top 8, and Betty, who famously pushed Justin Wong to the limit in tournament play.

Another confirmed change is the reduction of the minimum age requirement for SFL participation from 18 to 15 years old, effective next season. The league will continue with 12 teams split into two divisions, but the lowered age threshold opens the door to a new generation of prodigies.

One immediate beneficiary is Hinao, the highly touted REJECT player who is currently 14 and turns 15 in February. With this rule change, he will be eligible to compete when the next season begins.

A Pivotal Moment for Street Fighter 6 Esports

Taken together, these developments point toward a bold future for Street Fighter 6. Between REJECT’s dominance, the expansion into Asia, potential women’s competition, and increased youth inclusion, Capcom continues to push the boundaries of what a fighting game esports ecosystem can look like.

Street Fighter 6 is not just sustaining momentum. It is actively shaping the next era of the FGC.