The prodigal son has returned. After nearly five years away from the organization where he etched his name into Dota 2 history, Topias “Topson” Taavitsainen is officially back with OG. This move marks a massive pivot for the team as they look to leave behind the struggles of the 2025-2026 season.
Following a disappointing 14th-15th place finish at The International 2026, OG has opted for a complete structural overhaul. While the organization is keeping its roots in Southeast Asia, the new lineup brings in a blend of veteran leadership and fresh tactical hunger.
The New OG Roster
The team is built around a core of returning players and strategic acquisitions:
- Carry: John Anthony “Natsumi” Vargas
- Midlaner: Topias “Topson” Taavitsainen
- Offlaner: Valery “SSS” Lazarev
- Soft Support: Ivan “OneJey” Zhivitsky
- Hard Support / Captain: Rolen Andrei “skem” Ong
- Coach: Igor “kaffs” Estevão
The return of Topson is the headline grabber, but the addition of Valery “SSS” Lazarev—on loan from PARIVISION—and the inclusion of Ivan “OneJey” Zhivitsky provide the squad with much-needed stability. With Igor “kaffs” Estevão taking over coaching duties, the team is clearly aiming for a more disciplined approach to the upcoming season.
What This Means for OG
The 2025-2026 campaign was, by all accounts, a difficult chapter. The shift to an all-Filipino roster initially showed promise with top-six finishes at PGL Wallachia Season 6 and DreamLeague Season 27, but the momentum faded as the year progressed. By bringing back a two-time TI champion, OG is betting on experience to stabilize their mid-lane and provide the shot-calling depth they lacked during their recent slump.
Topson’s decision to return follows a brief, high-intensity stint with LGD Gaming at TI 2026. After that experience, the Finnish star made it clear he wasn't finished with professional Dota. For OG, this is more than just a roster move; it is a statement of intent.
The first major test for this lineup is right around the corner. The team is set to compete at BLAST Slam VIII, which kicks off on September 29th. With the group stage leading into high-stakes seeding matches and playoffs in Malta, we will quickly see if this "OG 2.0" can recapture the magic of the past.
For those looking to track how this new lineup performs, keep an eye on our MyEsports predictions as the tournament approaches.