Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) is officially returning to the 2026 Esports World Cup (EWC), following a phenomenal 2025 run that cemented its dominance in global esports. After being crowned the most-watched title in EWC history, MLBB continues to prove its massive worldwide appeal and competitive legacy.
MLBB Shatters Records at the 2025 Esports World Cup
According to Esports Charts, MLBB accounted for over 25% of all viewership during the 2025 Esports World Cup, with a staggering 50.32 million hours watched. This makes it the most-watched title in the event’s history—a feat that underscores its unparalleled popularity across regions.
The MLBB Mid Season Cup (MSC) stood out as the tournament’s crown jewel, drawing an incredible 3.06 million peak concurrent viewers (PCV)—the highest ever recorded for the EWC. With 16 participating regions, the MSC 2025 was also the largest edition in the competition’s history, offering esports athletes from around the globe a chance to shine on the biggest stage.
Meanwhile, the MLBB Women’s Invitational (MWI) achieved new heights for women’s esports, reaching a record 468,976 PCV. Since its debut in 2022, the MWI has continued to champion inclusivity and elevate female athletes in competitive gaming, with this year’s tournament ranking among the top five most-watched women’s esports events worldwide.
MOONTON Games Reaffirms Esports Leadership
Tiger Xu, Global Head of MLBB Esports at MOONTON Games, expressed excitement about the game’s continued partnership with the Esports World Cup Foundation:
“We’re thrilled that MLBB will once again be a featured title at EWC 2026. This recognition reflects MLBB’s leadership in global esports and our shared commitment to shaping the future of competitive gaming. Beyond hosting tournaments, our partnership is about creating sustainable growth and setting the standard for esports excellence.”
Driving Youth Empowerment Through Esports
At the sidelines of EWC 2025, MLBB’s impact went far beyond the competitive scene. The game has become a driving force for youth empowerment and digital skill development across nations.
Government leaders from Malaysia and the Philippines shared how MLBB Esports has inspired new programs aimed at nurturing future talents in gaming, production, and coaching.
- YB Adam Adli, Malaysia’s Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports, revealed that MLBB has been integrated into national youth initiatives to foster esports careers.
- Atty. Erose Marlo C. Laeno, Chief Legal Officer of the Philippines’ Games and Amusements Board, highlighted that MLBB’s global success has helped legitimize esports as a recognized professional sport.
Through continuous collaboration with global institutions and governments, MOONTON Games continues to promote a sustainable esports ecosystem that connects communities and fuels innovation.
The Road Ahead: M7 World Championship in Jakarta
Looking toward 2026, MLBB’s next major milestone is the M7 World Championship, set to take place in January 2026 in Jakarta, Indonesia. The event promises to be the largest MLBB tournament to date, bringing together 22 of the world’s best teams to compete on the home turf of MLBB Esports.
As one of the world’s most celebrated mobile esports titles, MLBB’s continued growth and global influence show no signs of slowing down. With its return to the 2026 Esports World Cup, fans can look forward to another thrilling year of high-level competition, innovation, and community-driven success.
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