UZI inducted into League of Legends Hall of Legends

League of Legends

20 May

Foo Zen-Wen

Jian “Uzi” Zi-Hao has been announced as the second inductee to the League of Legends Hall of Legends. Following Faker’s induction last year, many fans were already anticipating the venerated ADC to follow swiftly.

What is Hall of Legends?

The Hall of Legends is an effort by Riot Games to commemorate the history of competitive League of Legends – done by acknowledging the hands that helped build the esport into what it is today. The primary criterion for induction is a measuring of their ‘lasting impact’ on the game, the sport, and the community.

Players inducted into the Hall of Legends program will be presented with an official trophy for their achievements and memorialized on the Rift through an in-game event which celebrates the inductee and the historic moments of their career.

Uzi – The Herald of Chinese League of Legends

In modern day League of Legends, fans will look to names such as Jackeylove, Elk, or perhaps GALA to further propel their league to greater international success. But back then, at the dawn of competitive League of Legends, Uzi was the first. Regarded as the most brilliant, mechanically gifted ADC during the first era of competition, he led the charge of Chinese teams against the dominating Korean teams of the time - earning him the moniker of 'Mad Dog' to his fans and competitors for his in-your-face aggressive playstyle.

"Uzi's legacy goes beyond his titles and achievements; he changed the way we view the bot lane role and left a permanent mark on League of Legends Esports. His passion and determination have inspired millions, and once we saw the voting breakdown from the global votes, it was clear that Uzi had left his mark on LoL Esports. We are honored to induct him in the Hall of Legends."

- Chris Greely, Global Head of LoL Esports.

If Faker is seen as the face of Korean League of Legends, then Uzi is undoubtedly his counterpart in China. Much like Faker, Uzi made it to the Grand Finals of Worlds in his first season of professional play back in 2013. However, in a twist of fated irony, it was the aforementioned Faker-led SKT that he faced in the Grand Finals. Uzi would fail to bring home the Summoner’s Cup, a curse that tragically followed him for the rest of his career.

Despite that, Uzi was defined and recognized for his incredible carry potential and mechanical prowess. His early years was characterised as an utterly dominating force in the bot lane. If he got ahead, the game was over.

"When I saw Uzi play, I realized what the word 'carry' meant."

- Caster Jun

Not only did he help lay the foundation and inspire the rise of future Chinese ADCs but his early successes undoubtedly fueled Chinese League of Legends as a whole in the years that followed.

What to Expect This Year

As with Faker's induction last year, beginning June 11th, an in-game event celebrating the Mad Dog will commence with an event pass guiding players through Uzi's career and dedicated cosmetics items themed after and made in collaboration with Uzi. Moreover, Uzi will be honored with an official Hall of Legends induction ceremony in Shanghai, China on June 6th.

A full feature length film on Uzi’s career and triumphs is also set to be presented on June 11th – so don’t miss out!

Much like Faker was for the Mid Lane, many see Uzi as one of the pioneers for the AD Carry role. Credit: LoL Esports

Early reports have confirmed Kai’Sa to have been chosen as Uzi’s Hall of Legends skin, in a similar vein to Ahri for Faker. Vayne has been reported as the second skin, set to be available via the Hall of Legends 2025 Pass.

Both the full-feature film and skins is set to arrive with Patch 25.12 on June 11th.

Mercedes-Benz Returns for the Celebration

In honor of Uzi, Mercedes-Benz has once again returned to present a custom art piece honoring Uzi. Like last year, the piece will blend 'real world with the universe of League of Legends.' For the man himself, a personalized Mercedes-Benz G-Class with EQ Technology will be gifted.

"We wanted to honour Uzi with something as invidivual and unique as his career: a MANUFAKTUR customized G-Class with EQ Technology. This one-of-a-kind vehicle shall be a steady companion, always reminding him of his great achievements."

- Bettina Fetzer, Head of Communications and Marketing, Mercedes-Benz AG.

Further information on Uzi and his induction to the Hall of Legends will be available on the Hall of Legends website beginning May 27th.

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Featured Image Credit: Riot Games

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