Paper Rex eliminated from VCT Pacific 2025 Kickoff: roster changes possible
The Singaporean team Paper Rex has concluded their run at the VCT Pacific 2025 Kickoff, falling to Detonation FocusMe with a 0-2 score in the second round of the lower bracket. This defeat ended the team’s record-breaking streak of international tournament appearances, which had been ongoing since VCT 2022 Masters Reykjavík.
Following their elimination, founder and general manager Matt Djojo stated that the team might make roster changes before the next tournament.
"Every streak comes to an end. Since 2021, we haven’t missed a single international tournament, but now we won’t be competing at VCT 2025 Masters Bangkok. Thank you to all the fans who have supported us and helped create unforgettable moments! We will make all necessary adjustments and come back even stronger."
It is worth noting that Paper Rex international qualification streak began only at VCT 2022 Masters Reykjavík. Before that, they had missed VCT 2021 Masters Reykjavík and VALORANT Champions 2021, competing only at VCT 2021 Masters Berlin. Thus, their official streak of appearances in major international tournaments lasted for nine consecutive events.
Disappointing Tournament Performance
In 2024, Paper Rex delivered impressive results, winning VCT Pacific 2024 Stage 1 and securing third place at VCT 2024 Masters Madrid. However, at VCT Pacific 2025 Kickoff, the team failed to meet expectations.
In the second round of the lower bracket, Paper Rex lost to Detonation FocusMe 0-2. On the second map, Pearl— which they had chosen themselves— the team suffered a crushing 1-13 defeat.
Upcoming Roster Changes?
What exactly Paper Rex means by "necessary adjustments" remains unknown. The future of key players such as f0rsakeN , d4v41 , Mindfreak , and Jinggg — who have been with the team for nearly four years—as well as something, who has played for Paper Rex for almost two years, is uncertain.
Possible changes could include role shifts, player replacements, or an expansion of the coaching staff. The organization may announce its first decisions in the coming weeks, as fans eagerly anticipate Paper Rex ’s performance at VCT Pacific 2025 Stage 1, set to begin in March 2025.
