In an unexpected twist, the competitive scene of League of Legends is undergoing a notable transformation as preseason activities gain traction. The LCK Cup 2025, which kicked off on December 6, has already set the stage for intriguing matchups, particularly the highly anticipated clash between Hanwha Life Esports (HLE) and T1.
This upcoming match is particularly poignant, as it will see Lee “Gumayusi” Min-hyeong, who recently made headlines by moving from T1 to HLE, go up against his former teammates. The emotional stakes are high, given that this match follows the surprising split between T1 and Gumayusi, who played a crucial role in securing three consecutive World Championships together.
Joining Gumayusi at HLE is Choi “Zeus” Woo-je, who also exited T1 during the last offseason. His move mirrors the upheaval surrounding Gumayusi, although Zeus’s first confrontation with T1 occurred later in the tournament. He recently led HLE to a thrilling 3-2 series victory over T1 in the playoffs of the 2025 LCK Cup, which secured the cup for his team and established HLE as a serious contender.
As the tournament progresses, fans are excitedly anticipating what this rivalry will bring. Gumayusi’s synergy with Ryu “Keria” Min-seok at T1 was one of the most celebrated partnerships in the sport. However, the stakes in this upcoming match are higher than simple bragging rights, as both teams finished at the top of their respective groups and are in pursuit of an early advantage in the LCK’s competitive landscape.
The match format will be a best-of-three series, adding to the sense of urgency and intensity, although it will not lead to elimination. Another noteworthy matchup in the tournament features Dplus KIA facing Nongshim RedForce, further amplifying the excitement within the community.
Additionally, participation in the KeSPA Cup is crucial for gaining eligibility for the Asian Games, making every match a vital opportunity for the contenders.
With such a rich narrative unfolding in the early preseason landscape, the impending showdown between Gumayusi and T1 is poised to be a standout moment in the 2025 League of Legends season. Fans and analysts are closely following the developing storyline and its potential implications for both teams as they navigate through this transformative period.