Tributes Pour in For Kakeru After Shock Retirement

Kakeru Watanabe, otherwise known simply as Kakeru, announced his retirement from professional esports yesterday, the 23rd of October 2025. He made the decision due to an ongoing neurological issue that has left him unable to play as he wants. 

The decision came as a shock to many as Kakeru is not only in the prime of his life, but is arguably one of the best players in the world. He also has the distinct honor of having won the most prize money from tournaments as he has won both Capcom Cup and Esports World Cup (then known as Gamers8). 

He has been active since Street Fighter IV, came up briefly with some flashy displays in Street Fighter V, but finally cemented himself as one of the true greats in Street Fighter 6. 

There has been tributes from several players and fans that have littered social media. 

Former competitor and famous content creator, Brian_F made a YouTube video chronicling Kakeru's professional life and the impact he made especially on Street Fighter 6. He also posted on X (formerly Twitter), hailing Kakeru as someone who had fundamentally changed the game. It was through Kakeru's infamous Gamers8 Grand Final win over AngryBird that opened the eyes of people to the strengths of the perfect parry also earning himself the title 'perfect parry prince' in the process. 

Brian_F said in his post:

.@Kakeru_FGC changed the game of Street Fighter.

Seeing him go from the surprise break-out Ryu in end-game SFV, to the absolute BEST JP and arguably best SF6 player on the planet... to be the "Perfect Parry Prince" who narrowly missed qualifying for CC10 to winning the million the next year... it's been an incredible journey to follow.

Being a Kakeru fanboy wasn't always easy, but he consistently inspired the imaginations of fans and players around the world for what was truly possible in the world of Street Fighter if you continued to believe and work hard.

Wishing him a speedy recovery, good health, and happiness and fulfilment in wherever life takes him next.

Even Hungry Clicker, the famous artist who does a lot of work around the FGC paid tribute with a work of art depicting Kakeru as he smiled at the camera facing him. 

Kakeru's profile is already listed as inactive on the Zeta Division website and his image has been replace with that of Yamaguchi's for the Street Fighter League Japan team roster. There are many who hope that the retirement is temporary and he can return after getting treated. 

Kakeru will be remembered for being an elegant player and an engaging personality. He was incredibly skillful but somehow was always able to exude a sort of grace that made him incredibly likable. 

Hopefully, he recovers and can maybe even play on the big stage once again.