The world sees the spotlight, the trophies, and the thrilling plays—but behind every win in Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) esports, there are stories of struggle, resilience, and sacrifice. Those human stories take center stage in Level Up, a new Amazon Prime Video docuseries chronicling the journeys of top players at the Esports World Cup (EWC).
Premiering June 6, Level Up brings fans a behind-the-scenes look at esports like never before, starting with the emotional and inspiring journeys of MLBB athletes Sanford, Chell, and Cinny—names familiar to fans, now revealed in a deeper, more personal light.
🎮 The Game Behind the Game: MLBB Stars Share Their Truth
For most fans, MLBB pros are near-mythical figures—clutching victories and championship titles with unmatched skill. But Level Up peels back the curtain to show a more vulnerable side. Sanford Vinuya of Team Liquid Philippines, and Indonesian sisters Michelle “Chell” Siswanto and Cindy “Cinny” Siswanto of Team Vitality, reveal the real-life adversity they carried with them into the world’s biggest MLBB tournaments.
💔 Sanford: A Champion Carrying More Than Just a Team
In Episode 2, premiering June 13, the spotlight turns to Sanford, the rising star who led Team Liquid Philippines to victory in MPL Philippines Season 15. But behind his in-game dominance lies a heavy story: months before the Mid Season Cup (MSC) at EWC 2024, Sanford’s father suffered a massive stroke. Thrust into the role of his family’s breadwinner, he faced one of the toughest personal battles of his life while representing his country on the global stage.
“Being featured in this docuseries gave me a platform to share what fans don’t see. Yes, we’re athletes, but we’re also people with families, emotions, and real struggles,” Sanford said.
Sanford and his team are now preparing to compete in MSC at EWC 2025, heading back to Riyadh with renewed purpose—and a story that resonates beyond the game.
🕊️ Chell and Cinny: Playing Through Grief
Episode 3, releasing June 20, will feature Chell and Cinny, two trailblazing women representing Indonesia in the MLBB Women’s Invitational (MWI). Their participation at EWC 2024 came with a heartbreak few knew about: the sisters lost their grandfather on the very day they arrived in Riyadh for the tournament.
“Despite the pain, we chose to compete—for him, and for everyone who believes in us,” Cinny shared.
“It’s an honor to share our story, especially as women in esports. We want to inspire others to chase their dreams, no matter the challenges,” Chell added.
Their inclusion in Level Up is not just a personal win, but a statement about the power of representation and the emotional strength of women in competitive gaming.
🌍 A Global Platform for Esports and Inclusion
According to Ray Ng, Head of Esports Ecosystem at MOONTON Games, the series is not only about esports—it’s about diversity, visibility, and inspiration.
“The global stage isn’t just for gameplay—it’s also a platform for storytelling. We’re proud to see MLBB athletes like Sanford, Chell, and Cinny sharing their truth with millions,” said Ng.
MLBB continues to lead the way in inclusivity, being the only title at the inaugural EWC to feature both a professional open and a dedicated women’s tournament. MWI at EWC 2025 is already making waves with a 16-team lineup, while MSC 2025 sees expanded competition with Japan and Vietnam securing dedicated Wild Card slots.
📺 When and Where to Watch Level Up
- Premiere: June 6 at 1 AM CEST / 7 AM GMT+8 on Prime Video
- Episode 2 (Sanford): Launches June 13
- Episode 3 (Chell & Cinny): Launches June 20
The docuseries offers a rare and moving perspective on the esports world—and the players who give it heart.
🌟 Beyond the Arena: MLBB as a Cultural Force
Level Up isn’t just entertainment; it’s a celebration of perseverance, a testament to the emotional highs and lows that come with being a pro player. It also affirms Mobile Legends: Bang Bang as more than a game—it’s a global movement, a career path, and for many, a lifeline.
Whether you’re a competitive player, a passionate fan, or new to the world of MLBB, these stories remind us why esports matters—and why representation in gaming is more important than ever.
