Former League of Legends World Champion Doinb is making a remarkable return to competitive play after a two-year hiatus. This time, the South Korean mid laner will represent Ninjas in Pyjamas (NIP), a team competing in China’s LPL.
The announcement has sparked excitement among fans, as Doinb’s return marks a new chapter for both the player and the organization.
A New Chapter for NIP and Doinb
On January 9, NIP revealed that Doinb would join their roster for the upcoming LPL 2025 Split One. The team appears to be aiming high, bringing in the seasoned mid laner as they seek to assemble a competitive lineup. However, the roster is still incomplete, with uncertainty surrounding the contracts of top laner shanji and jungler Aki.
Doinb joins a team that already boasts players like ppgod, a talented support with a strong reputation in the league. NIP’s move hints at ambitions to build a powerhouse capable of competing with the best in China.
Doinb’s Competitive Journey
Doinb’s career is one of extraordinary highs and a brief retreat from the competitive scene. After his 2019 World Championship victory with FunPlus Phoenix (FPX)—a year that saw him dominate the LPL Summer Season and crush G2 Esports in the Worlds final—Doinb became a household name.
However, his last professional outing in 2021 with FPX ended in disappointment as the team failed to progress past the group stage at Worlds.
Since stepping away from the pro scene in late 2022, Doinb has remained a significant figure in the community through streaming and content creation. His return raises questions about his current form and whether he can replicate the success of his earlier years.
What to Expect from Doinb and NIP
The upcoming LPL 2025 Split One kicks off on January 12, but NIP’s first match is scheduled for January 19 against Invictus Gaming. All eyes will be on Doinb to see how he adapts to the evolving meta and whether he can still deliver the creativity and leadership that defined his earlier career.
Key Details About Doinb’s Return:
- Team: Ninjas in Pyjamas (NIP)
- Role: Mid Laner
- First Match: January 19, 2025, against Invictus Gaming
- Last Competitive Appearance: 2021 with FPX
- Achievements: 2019 World Champion, LPL Summer 2019 MVP
Conclusion
Doinb’s return to professional play adds excitement and intrigue to the LPL 2025 Split One. Fans are eager to see if the former World Champion can bring his signature flair back to the Rift and help NIP achieve their ambitions. With the season just around the corner, the stage is set for an exciting showdown.
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