Topson Returns to OG for 2026-27 Dota 2 Season, Debuts at BLAST SLAM VIII

Topias “Topson” Taavitsainen is back at OG. The midlaner, who led the organization to consecutive The International championships in 2018 and 2019, has rejoined the Dota 2 squad for the 2026-27 season, marking a significant roster move for a team that cycled through multiple changes over the past year.

Topson’s arrival headlines a rebuilt five-man lineup. Carry John Anthony “Natsumi” Vargas and hard support Andrei “skem” Ong remain from last season’s Filipino-anchored roster, providing continuity. The organization filled its offlane and support positions with Valery “SSS” Lazarev and Ivan “OneJey” Zhivitsky, replacing Timothy “TIMS” Randrup and Polo “Raven” Fausto. Igor “kaffs” Estevão, most recently with LGD and HEROIC, takes the head coach role.

Why Now

The timing gives OG’s rebuilt squad an immediate, tier-1 proving ground. The organization received a direct invitation to BLAST SLAM VIII, which kicks off September 29, 2026. The event spans online and offline stages before playoffs at BLAST Arena Studios in Malta—a high-profile stage for Topson’s first competitive appearance with the new roster.

Topson’s move caps a period of instability at OG. The organization signed TorontoTokyo earlier this cycle and weathered documented roster and coaching turbulence. His return also ends a stretch where the two-time TI champion largely streamed and made occasional appearances for veteran-heavy squads like Monkey Business and Retirement Home, though he did help Tundra Esports reach third place and competed with LGD at TI15 (finishing 9th-13th).

What It Means

Topson’s unconventional hero pool and track record at the highest level have made him one of Dota 2’s most recognizable players. His departure in previous years reflected broader shifts in competitive rosters, but this return signals OG’s commitment to a stable foundation heading into the new season. Whether the organization can translate Topson’s individual skill and the fresh five-man chemistry into results will become clear when the squad debuts on September 29.