Cover-Credits:
RRQ undoubtedly boasts one of the largest fanbases in Mobile Legends: Bang Bang esports, an achievement that stems from their consistent presence in the competitive scene since 2017, during the game's early days of gaining popularity in Southeast Asia. In a recent YouTube video, Frederick Handy "Mirko" Loho, an iconic Indonesian shoutcaster, reflected on how RRQ's massive fanbase can be a double-edged sword for its talented players. While the unwavering support from fans undoubtedly boosts the team's morale and overall success, it also carries the potential to create pressure and scrutiny that some pro players might find overwhelming.
Fan expectations may bring pressure on RRQ players, says Mirko
Mirko, a prominent esports caster for Mobile Legends esports in Indonesia, delved into a RRQ's recruiting process. His insights shed light on a significant aspect that may have contributed to some talented pro players turning down offers from the team.
Rather than citing financial reasons for players' rejections, Mirko pointed to the immense weight players experience when representing the prestigious RRQ name. He emphasized that the players simply find the prospect of being an RRQ player daunting in today's competitive landscape.
“It’s more realistic to say that they are not stingy [with the offers]... players are just not accepting,” he said.
He further elaborated on his claims as to why players seem to hesitate in joining the renowned King of Kings. “The fact that they denied, they rejected this offer, shows you just how scary it is to become an RRQ player in this day and age, dude,” he explained.
Mirko elaborated on the challenges, explaining, “It’s a double-edged sword when you have a fanbase as big as RRQ. When you win? It’s the best feeling in the world… but if you lose? Losing as an RRQ player, coach, as anyone from RRQ, it’s just not a good time,”
He clarified that his concern lies with the toxic online fans who subject RRQ talents to hate comments, potentially affecting the team's overall mentality.
While acknowledging that not all RRQ fans are negative, Mirko highlighted the damaging impact of bandwagoners who relentlessly criticize underperforming players. This kind of relentless scrutiny, Mirko believes, creates immense pressure to always deliver flawless performances and avoid any mistakes.
“How are you gonna perform at your max level on stage when you know if you f***** up, just once, you missed a Flicker, these pieces of s*** are gonna hate you for the rest of the time, dude?” he questioned.
Mirko's explanation highlights the critical role that fan support and the esports community play in shaping players' decisions and overall mental well-being within the competitive arena.
RRQ is currently competing in the Mobile Legends Professional League Indonesia (MPL ID) Season 12. The team recently acquired former Falcon Esports talents Min "Naomi" Ko and coach Zaya "Sayargyi" Paing.
It will be interesting to see if the renowned King of Kings will be able to bring back its former glory and win this season's championship title.
