REJECT Launches ‘Youth’ Division to Develop Next Generation for SF6

Japanese esports organization REJECT has officially launched a new Street Fighter 6 division aimed at nurturing the country’s next generation of fighting game talent. Simply titled “REJECT Youth,” the initiative brings together a group of rising stars that the organization will sponsor and support as part of its broader effort to grow esports in Japan.

The four players joining REJECT Youth are Tako, Yujiro, Eguto, and Hinao, each considered among the most promising young competitors in Japan’s Street Fighter 6 scene.

Tako, in particular, has begun to attract attention thanks to his recent results, which include a second-place finish at GRAPHT Cup and third place at the Red Bull LEGENDUS Open Tournament, where he fell to Akutagawa in the semifinals.

The new squad will make its first official appearance representing REJECT at the upcoming Capcom Cup qualifier in China, competing alongside members of the main REJECT roster.

REJECT’s main Street Fighter League Japan lineup already features some of the game’s biggest names, including Tokido, Daigo, Fuudo, and LeShar (currently on loan from DRX). The organization also sponsors global stars Big Bird and AngryBird, two of the most dominant players from Europe and the Middle East.

By creating a youth team, REJECT joins a growing movement in Japanese esports focused on talent development and sustainability. Other organizations, such as Crazy Raccoon, have also begun investing in young players through dedicated events and grassroots tournaments.

With Street Fighter 6 achieving record-breaking popularity in Japan and revitalizing the local fighting game community, initiatives like REJECT Youth highlight a promising shift, one that treats competitive gaming not just as entertainment, but as a legitimate career path for the next generation.