MenaRD, a 25-year-old gamer from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, has emerged victorious at the Evolution (EVO) Championship Series: Japan 2025. The popular fighting game specialist, whose real name is Saul Leonardo Mena Segundo, went undefeated in the Street Fighter competition, triumphing over 7,195 participants from around the world. MenaRD’s journey to the top began in 2017 when he started his career in gaming.
Since then, he has claimed titles at prestigious events such as the 2023 Capcom Cup and the 2024 Red Bull Kumite. His history with EVO Japan is also noteworthy, having placed second in the tournament’s Street Fighter competition in 2023 before clinching the championship the following year.
MenaRD’s milestone achievement
During the grand finals of EVO Japan 2025, MenaRD faced off against Japanese gamer Ryukichi in a thrilling best-of-seven series. The two competitors engaged in four sets of battles, with MenaRD ultimately securing a 3-1 victory and his second consecutive championship at the event. Overcome with emotion, MenaRD stated, “One thing I learned this year is that you can never stop believing in yourself.” His triumph earned him a prize of 1,750,000 yen, equivalent to approximately $12,037.63 in U.S. dollars.
MenaRD’s achievements at EVO Japan 2025 not only showcase his exceptional skills as a fighting game player but also represent significant milestones for the Latin American and Caribbean gaming communities. His success serves as an inspiration to aspiring gamers from these regions, demonstrating that with dedication and self-belief, anyone can reach the pinnacle of competitive gaming on a global stage. As MenaRD continues to make his mark in the world of fighting games, fans and fellow competitors alike will undoubtedly be eager to see what the future holds for this rising star from the Dominican Republic.
Image Credits: Photo by Vienna Reyes on Unsplash
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