Top 50 Most Influential People in the FGC – Part 9

We’re at the penultimate entry 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 some of the best players in their respective games, creme de la creme of the FGC: Derek "iDom" Ruffin, Dominique "SonicFox" McLean, Bae "Knee" Jae-Min, Arslan "Arslan Ash" Siddique, and Daigo Umehara. Congratulations!

Derek "iDom" Ruffin

Derek "iDom" Ruffin is one of those professional players who will never lose the ability to surprise you. Even after you’ve seen hundreds upon thousands of their matches, they will show you something new in the very next one. iDom is rightfully considered to be one of the best Street Fighter players in the world, and he has accolades to prove it. Capcom Cup, CEO, Combo Breaker, the only thing that’s yet to be won by him is Evo, which will surely come in the future. One of the most consistent and versatile players of his generation, he’ll be a force to be reckoned with for many years to come.

Bae "Knee" Jae-Min

There are some players whose consistent excellence is just perplexing, and Bae "Knee" Jae-Min is a prime example. Whenever you see his name on the participants list, you can be sure he’ll be up there in the top 3. A player with an impeccable sense of defense and timings, many find playing against him the most frustrating experience, as they simply can’t land hits on him.

One of Korea’s most decorated esports athletes, he has won over a dozen major events, with his total tournament win count exceeding 100 in 2022.

Nowadays, many players are after his legacy, but he’s still rightfully considered to be Tekken’s Greatest of all Time.

Dominique "SonicFox" McLean

Dominique "SonicFox" McLean could very well be the greatest fighting game player that ever lived. Their continued success and outright domination in various titles is nothing short of astonishing. Aside from their in-game success, SonicFox has been a staunch advocate for underrepresented communities in the FGC.

A six-time Evo champion, they have achieved this in five different games: Injustice: Gods Among Us, Mortal Kombat X, Mortal Kombat 11, Skullgirls, and Dragon Ball FighterZ.

SonicFox’s rivalry with Goichi "GO1" Kishida in the latter across many different tournaments is a gem in FGC’s crown.

Many have challenged SonicFox over the years, but the words in their bio ring true: Do not test them, you will lose.

Arslan "Arslan Ash" Siddique

Every year, we get players who become new FGC stars, but none have risen as meteorically fast as Arslan "Arslan Ash" Siddique. His achievements in Tekken 7 are undeniable – four Evo wins, CEO, Combo Breaker, VSFighting, he has done it all. But arguably, his greatest achievement is helping Pakistan become the strongest region on the Tekken map. He obviously didn’t do it alone, but being a spearhead of such a strong group of players is noteworthy all the same. His organization, Ashes Gaming, helps players from Pakistan achieve their dreams.

While mostly known for his unparalleled Tekken prowess, Arslan Ash is also a big fan of King of Fighters, with the moniker Ash coming from the character Ash Crimson.

Being a true example of sporting excellence, he has been a Red Bull athlete since 2019 – a rare honor in the FGC.

With Tekken 8’s release being close, you could very well expect Arslan Ash to be the favorite of any tournaments to come.

Daigo Umehara

In every sport or esport, there is a group of elite athletes whose deeds and fame exceed the boundaries of their sport. Michael Jordan, Lionel Messi, Michael Schumacher, Lee "Faker" Sang-hyeok. Daigo Umehara is the FGC’s answer to them.

He’s been here for over two decades, always at the top, always setting the example. One of the first global esports phenomena, his star has never set. He inspired many to take up gamepads and practice combos in fighting games; his iconic moments like “Daigo Parry” will live in the video game annals of history forever, and his name as someone who helped shape the entirety of competitive gaming will be etched in the hearts of millions forever.

Here’s to twenty more years of The Beast!

We have the last entry remaining in this series. Who do you want to see in the top 50?