Victor "Punk" Woodley's Triumphant Victory at EVO 2024: An American Champion After Two Decades
The Evolution Championship Series (EVO) 2024 concluded on July 21st with a historic win for Victor "Punk" Woodley in the Street Fighter 6 tournament. This victory marks the first time in over 20 years an American has claimed the top spot in a mainline Street Fighter EVO competition. The three-day event showcased a wide array of fighting games, including Tekken 8, Guilty Gear -Strive-, and more. Woodley's win is a significant milestone for the American fighting game community.
The Grand Finals Showdown
The finals were a thrilling battle against Anouche, who fought his way back from the loser's bracket. Anouche's 3-0 victory forced a reset, setting the stage for an unforgettable best-of-five rematch. The final match was a nail-biter, with both players tied at 2-2 before Woodley's decisive Cammy super move secured the championship.Woodley's Journey to Victory
Woodley's competitive gaming career began during the Street Fighter V era, where he achieved remarkable success before his 18th birthday. While he's consistently performed at a high level, winning numerous major tournaments, EVO and Capcom Cup victories had remained elusive until this year. His third-place finish at EVO 2023 set the stage for his triumphant return in 2024. The final match is already considered legendary within the EVO community.
A Global Stage for Fighting Game Talent
EVO 2024 highlighted the global reach of competitive fighting games. The diverse roster of champions includes:
This international showcase of talent underscores the global appeal and competitive spirit of the fighting game community.