The League of Legends community is about to celebrate one of its greatest icons. On June 11, Riot Games will officially induct Jian “Uzi” Zihao into the Hall of Legends as its second member, a move that recognizes his unmatched influence on the bot lane and beyond. This induction is more than a trophy—it’s a testament to how esports has evolved into a mainstream phenomenon driven by legendary competitors.
When Uzi first burst onto the World Championship stage in 2013, his mechanical prowess and fearless decision-making redefined the ADC role. By 2014, his back-to-back World Finals appearances had not only filled stadiums but also ignited pop culture interest across Asia. His highlight-reel moments—clutch Baron steals, immaculate laning, and nerve-wracking team fights—became viral sensations, drawing millions of new viewers to League of Legends esports.
Riot’s Hall of Legends initiative goes beyond ceremony. The specially designed event pass allocates a portion of its revenue directly to Uzi and his former teams, a long-standing demand from fans who wanted their support to benefit the players they admire. The accompanying skin line will feature a futuristic “Hall of Legends Uzi” champion model, complete with a custom recall animation referencing his legendary plays.
This celebration also signals a new era of mutual recognition between developers and athletes. By rewarding Uzi with both symbolic and tangible honors, Riot Games acknowledges that the star power of pro players is integral to League of Legends’s enduring success. The G-Class SUV presented at a star-studded Shanghai ceremony is more than a luxury gift—it’s proof that esports icons now operate on the same level as footballers and basketball stars.
Fans can dive into Uzi’s legacy starting June 11. The event will feature limited-time game modes recreating his greatest matches, a community art contest to design future chromas, and a video retrospective narrated by fellow pros. These interactive elements turn what could have been a one-day announcement into a multi-week celebration that brings players old and new into Uzi’s world.
Beyond the event, Uzi’s induction is expected to influence future game balance and content updates. Developers are listening to feedback around ADC mechanics, and the spotlight on Uzi’s style may inspire nerfs or buffs that preserve the strategic depth he championed. His impact extends from the rift to Riot’s design labs, ensuring his legacy will shape League’s evolution long after the celebrations end.
Looking forward, the big question is which players will follow in Uzi’s footsteps. Will the Hall of Legends remain exclusive, or will Riot open the doors to induct multiple legends from various regions? Maintaining a high bar will preserve the prestige of induction, but broadening the roster could celebrate diverse talents who have also shaped the game.
Ultimately, Uzi’s induction isn’t just a nod to nostalgia—it’s a living legacy within League of Legends. It offers a chance to relive iconic moments, claim distinctive cosmetics, and appreciate the player who helped write the script for modern ADC play. For many, this event is more than in-game content; it’s a landmark moment that honors the past while setting the stage for the future of LoL esports.
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Source: Riot Games via GamesPress
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