Last year, the return of the EVO Fighting Championship was canceled due to both COVID-19 and the antics of a member who I won’t name. Nonetheless, EVO 2020 Online didn’t happen and questions surrounding the further existence of the tournament were brought into question. Was it going to continue? Who would run the tournaments going forward? Well, today, we have an answer. Sony Interactive Entertainment and RTS (new esports venture-backed by investors including global entertainment, sports, and content company Endeavor) have formed a joined partnership and will host the EVO 2021 Online tournament.
This tournament will take place across two weekends: August 6-8 and August 13-15. The current lineup includes Mortal Kombat 11, Tekken 7, Street Fighter V: Championship Edition, and Guilty Gear -Strive- with more titles to be announced soon.
Here’s what Tony and Tom Cannon had to say regarding the newly created partnership.
“Evo would not be possible without the collective passion and collaboration of the fighting game community, and we’re deeply grateful for your dedication over the past 25 years. We know last year was challenging due to the pandemic, and the circumstances surrounding the cancellation of Evo Online involving a former team member who has been completely separated from our company.
We want to reaffirm that harassment or abuse of any kind has no place within Evo or any of our future events, and we’re taking every precaution to make sure members of our community will always be treated with the respect, dignity and decency you deserve.
In order to deliver on the trust you have all put in Evo, we realize that we need an experienced strategic partner who truly respects the spirit of the FGC. This is why we’re excited to announce that Evo has become part of the joint partnership of Sony Interactive Entertainment and RTS. The new partnership is committed to bringing amazing tournaments and competitive gaming experiences back to you this year and beyond.
We’re thrilled to work with the teams at PlayStation and RTS to bring you Evo 2021 Online this August. More information on the event will follow.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for your continued support. -Tony and Tom Cannon”
I know this announcement will likely pose more questions, and rightfully so. However, while the fighting tournament is changing hands, Sony has assured everyone that all platforms will be welcomed. Meaning, we’ll see Killer Instinct, an Xbox fighting game, at the event, as an example.
Source: EVO
