Top 50 Most Influential People in the FGC – Part 3

We’re already in the third week of our Top 50 Most Influential People in the FGC project, where we highlight FGC’s shining stars and community leaders whose names are destined for the Halls of Fame. These figures, whether through their exceptional gaming skill, their extraordinary contributions to the community, or their tireless efforts in fostering growth and inclusivity, have helped shape the FGC into what it is today.

However, it's essential to note that while this list aims to honor some of the most remarkable individuals within the FGC, the inherent subjectivity of such rankings means that many other influential figures may not find themselves among these fifty names. The FGC is diverse and expansive, teeming with talent and dedication at every level, and influence often extends beyond the boundaries of a list. This compilation serves as a tribute to those who have undoubtedly played a significant role in the growth and evolution of the Fighting Game Community, but it's important to remember that the impact of countless others is equally valuable and deserving of recognition.

Today, we have one of the staunchest supporters of the European FGC, Samed "Damascus" Abdessadki, a player who could have a claim to be one of the best Street FIghter players in the world, Victor "Punk" Woodley, Mortal Kombat’s American community leader, Bryant "Kitana Prime" Benzing, one of the best Tekken players in the world and a Forbes 30 Under 30 member, Jeannail "Cuddle_Core" Carter, and the loudest, hypest voice in the FGC, Steven "Tasty Steve" Scott. Congratulations!

Samed "Damascus" Abdessadki

A community leader not only for the French FGC but Europe as a whole, Samed "Damascus" Abdessadki’s achievements can’t be understated. Damascus has long established himself as an influential content creator and advocate for European players at every tournament. He achieved recognition on a global scale with his commentary work for various fighting games, as well as his community efforts through the Reversal platform. He’s a bonafide example of a community figure who leads not only with words but with deeds as well.

Bryant "Kitana Prime" Benzing

Bryant "Kitana Prime" Benzing is one of those elite esports commentators who not only make your viewing experience of any given match much better; they also envelop you in the narrative surrounding it. Kitana Prime’s deep knowledge of the game and the community surrounding it helps him tell you an engaging story that makes you invested. Aside from commentary, Kitana Prime is a big community advocate, lending his voice to support important causes. And his involvement with the FGC doesn’t stop there: he’s also a tournament organizer and a good MK player in his own right.

Jeannail "Cuddle_Core" Carter

The FGC journey of Jeannail "Cuddle_Core" Carter is truly one of the most inspirational in our scene. In an industry that historically suffers from a lack of female representation, she managed to become one of the best Tekken players in the entire region, her skill being backed by countless top-8 finishes in the last couple of years. This, coupled with her constant efforts to help underrepresented groups, alongside her massive charity work, got her recognition by inclusion in the Forbes 30 Under 30 2022 for Games. But this isn’t all: Cuddle_Core is also the first Black female professional player to be signed as a Red Bull athlete.

Victor "Punk" Woodley

One of the most talented fighting game players of the North American continent, Victor "Punk" Woodley’s path in the FGC has been that of success. As demanding of himself as he is of others, Punk doesn’t settle for anything less than excellence. During his career, he won several majors, including eight Capcom Pro Tour premier events. Known primarily through his thoughtful and precise Street Fighter play, he has also competed in many other games, even getting a top-2 finish in the newly released Mortal Kombat 1. A fighting game prodigy, Punk will surely achieve a lot in Street Fighter 6.

Steven "Tasty Steve" Scott

Fighting game commentary is different from any other popular esport, and there’s no one better to represent it than Steven "Tasty Steve" Scott. His knowledge of the games he casts is on par with anyone else, but his hype – that’s unparalleled. No one else in the entire gaming space brings as much energy and passion as Tasty Steve. He has commentated and hosted hundreds, thousands of events, yet to this day, he remains FGC’s biggest and loudest fan. His infectious enthusiasm gave birth to such iconic phrases as “Do it again” and “Make some noise!” We have no other choice but to obey!

This is the third part of our project. We will keep highlighting these incredible FGC stars for seven more weeks until the Top 50 is complete. And also, feel free to mention people who you think deserve to be applauded for their achievements alongside these esteemed stars! Until the next Monday!