NuckleDu is not attending this year’s SFV Capcom Cup

One of the best, if not the best Street Fighter V player is missing out on the biggest Street Fighter V tournament of the year, as “NuckleDu” won’t come back to defend his title.

Du “NuckleDu” Dang announced via Twitter that he “likely won’t be attending” next month’s Capcom Cup, the championship event of the Capcom Pro Tour. NuckleDu was set to enter the event, taking place on December 9, as its reigning and defending champion.

The Street Fighter pro did not reveal a reason for his withdrawal, but he stated that his decision had the support of tour organizer and Street Fighter publisher Capcom. Team Liquid, who signed NuckleDu in January of 2015, also supported his decision. In a tweet, the team told NuckleDu to “focus on yourself first and competition second.”

Missing out on the tournament isn’t an easy decision. NuckleDu earned $230,000 for his victory at last year’s Capcom Cup. The winner of this year’s event will earn a similar payday. NuckleDu was among the favorites to win next month’s Capcom Cup title. He was granted an automatic berth into the final by virtue of being the defending champion, but he would have easily earned his way into the event on his own. He won three Pro Tour events, finished fourth or better in four others, and tied for fifth place at this year’s Evo. He ended the season in third place on the Pro Tour’s global leaderboard.

NuckleDu’s absence will impact the entire Capcom Cup bracket, which has yet to be revealed. (via: dotesports)