ZETA DIVISION’s Kakeru Sidelined as Health Concerns Grow

There are growing concerns about the health of Capcom Cup champion Kakeru after it was confirmed that he would miss ZETA DIVISION’s third Street Fighter League (SFL) match, as well as Evo France and other major tournaments requiring travel.

Kakeru participated in the Esports World Cup but had to withdraw early due to health issues. Since then, the Gamers8 winner has been absent from all events, while his SFL team has struggled at the bottom of the standings.

ZETA DIVISION released a statement explaining that while Kakeru will be unavailable for any strenuous overseas travel, he may still take part in online competitions or local fan events, based on his doctor’s advice.

Fans have expressed growing concern for Kakeru’s condition on social media, with many worried about the long-term impact on his career.

His absence has also reignited debate around the SFL’s current four-player system. Under this season’s rules, if teams are tied after three matches, the fourth player must compete in the tiebreaker. While the format raises the stakes, especially with the SFL World Champion team earning guaranteed slots at the next Capcom Cup, it leaves little flexibility when players face illness or injury. Some have suggested expanding team rosters to five members, allowing for a reserve player.

For ZETA DIVISION, this would be particularly valuable, as Yamaguchi is currently training with the squad but is not listed on their official SFL roster. If the rules permitted a fifth member, he would be a timely reinforcement.

Evo champion MenaRD echoed this sentiment, supporting the idea of expanding team rosters.

The community continues to hope for Kakeru’s speedy recovery and return to competition.