Street Fighter Pros Beg For Help After ICE Snatches Their Teammate
Kotaku
by Kenneth ShepardFebruary 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Street Fighter pros are rallying around their teammate Ludovic Mbock after U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detained him during a tournament in Las Vegas. Known as "Chun-Li" Ludo, Mbock is a prominent player in the fighting game scene, competing under the identity of the iconic Street Fighter character Chun-Li. The incident has sparked widespread concern among gamers and esports enthusiasts, with many calling for his release and advocating for his legal rights.
Ludovic Mbock gained recognition for his skillful gameplay as Chun-Li, a character he has popularized in competitive circuits worldwide. His detention occurred during the Street Fighter V: Champion Edition World Finals, where he was competing under an alias due to concerns about his immigration status. The situation has raised questions about the treatment of immigrants in esports and the challenges faced by professionals who are not U.S. citizens.
The gaming community has strongly condemned ICE's actions, with fellow players like Abate "Zain" Terrell and Justin "JewWu" Low speaking out on social media. They have emphasized Mbock's contributions to the sport and called for a fair resolution of his legal case. This incident highlights the intersection of gaming, immigration, and human rights, underscoring how esports can serve as a platform for broader societal issues.
Mbock's story also sheds light on the struggles faced by immigrants in competitive gaming, where visas, residency, and legal status often play critical roles in professional opportunities. The case has united gamers worldwide, who see it as a reminder of the importance of advocating for fair treatment and equal rights for all players, regardless of their nationality.
In conclusion, Ludovic Mbock's detention serves as a wake-up call to address systemic issues that affect immigrants in esports. His story is not just about gaming but also about the broader fight for justice and equality in a global community that transcends borders.
Verticals
gamingentertainment
Originally published on Kotaku on 2/19/2026