Flipster Talon is back. With vengeance!
May 25, 2025 – In a show of strategic brilliance and mechanical dominance, Southeast Asia’s Flipster Talon surged past two of Europe’s most prominent Dota 2 powerhouses—Nigma Galaxy and Gaimin Gladiators—securing back-to-back wins, a clean 2-0 sweep and a dominant reverse, at DreamLeague Season 26.
The wins cement the team’s growing reputation as a dark horse turned top contender in the global Dota 2 scene.
Led by veteran Carlo “Kuku” Palad, Flipster Talon executed near-flawless plays across both series, showcasing not just individual star power but also exceptional team synergy. The victories serve as a significant statement, especially as the team navigates the treacherous waters of international competition.
Against Nigma Galaxy: Surgical Precision and Map Control
Facing Nigma Galaxy, Flipster Talon took control from the start. Game 1 saw the SEA squad dictating tempo through superior lane matchups and early objectives. Their coordination in teamfights limited Nigma’s options to recover, ending the game in just over 30 minutes.
Game 2 was a masterclass in map control. Flipster Talon prevented Nigma from contesting Roshan, choked out farm space, and dominated vision around key objectives. With seamless rotations and decisive engagements, Talon closed out the match and the series in commanding fashion.
Against Gaimin Gladiators: High-Paced, Calculated Chaos
The Filipino-led roster didn’t slow down as they went up against Gaimin Gladiators, a team fresh off consistent top finishes in recent Valve events. In Game 1, Flipster Talon unleashed an aggressive draft built for tempo — and they executed it flawlessly. The Gladiators struggled to keep up with Talon’s skirmish-heavy approach, conceding major teamfights and eventually the game.
Game 2 showcased Flipster Talon’s adaptability. Shifting from raw aggression to disciplined objective play, the team systematically dismantled Gladiators’ defensive structures and punished every overextension. With precise execution and coolheaded macro decisions, Talon closed out another swift win to complete their second 2-0 sweep of the day.
Kuku and Company: A Cohesive Force
Much of Flipster Talon’s recent surge is credited to the leadership of Carlo “Kuku” Palad, whose veteran presence continues to shape the team’s playstyle. The Filipino veteran’s versatility and game sense were on full display, enabling his team to maintain composure in high-stakes situations. Alongside him, the rest of the squad played with synchronization that left even elite opponents scrambling for answers.
These performances underscore the evolution of Flipster Talon from a promising SEA lineup into a legitimate global contender. With their momentum building, the team now stands in strong contention for a playoff spot at DreamLeague Season 26 — and possibly a coveted invitation to the Riyadh Masters.
SEA’s Roar is Getting Louder
In a tournament stacked with world-class rosters from North America, Europe, China, and beyond, Flipster Talon’s twin victories serve as a powerful reminder that Southeast Asia remains a breeding ground for elite talent. Their clean sweeps over both Nigma Galaxy and Gaimin Gladiators are not just upsets — they are statements.
As the DreamLeague season continues, all eyes will be on Flipster Talon. And if their Day 3 performance is any indication, they are just getting started.
