Introduction
Arslan “Arslan Ash” Siddique is more than just a gamer — he is Pakistan’s esports icon. With seven EVO titles to his name, he has redefined what it means to dream big from a country often overlooked in the gaming world. His journey, resilience, and latest win at EVO France 2025 are a source of national pride and inspiration.
Early Life & Beginnings
- Born: August 20, 1995, Lahore, Pakistan Wikipedia+1
- He first played Tekken 4 in a local arcade at the age of eight, sparking his love for fighting games. Wikipedia+1
- Despite limited resources, weak infrastructure, and travel/visa challenges, he kept pushing forward.
Career Highlights & Rise
- Arslan began his competitive journey around 2010, winning local tournaments. Wikipedia
- He signed with vSlash, Red Bull, FATE Esports, and ultimately Twisted Minds as his esports teams. Wikipedia+2Esports Insider+2
- He is a 7× EVO champion (2019 twice, 2023 twice, 2024, 2025 twice). Wikipedia+2Minute Mirror+2
- Among his other major wins:
• Tekken World Tour Finals 2023 Wikipedia
• CEO 2021, Combo Breaker 2022 Wikipedia+1
The Historic Win — EVO France 2025
Arslan’s latest crowning achievement came at EVO France 2025 (October 10–12, 2025), where he secured his seventh EVO title in the Tekken 8 tournament. Facebook+3Esports Insider+3Minute Mirror+3
- He entered the final bracket from the lower bracket, overcoming multiple intense matches to reach the Grand Finals. Esports Insider
- In Grand Finals he faced South Korea’s Jeon “JeonDDing” Sang-hyun. Arslan reset the bracket (3-1) and then won the decisive set 3-2 to claim the championship. Esports Insider+1
- His prize for that win was approximately €7,400 (~USD 8,670). Esports Insider+1
- With this win, he became the only player in Tekken history to win EVO titles across three continents: Asia, North America, Europe. Minute Mirror+2Wikipedia+2
Media outlets covered this triumph widely. For example, Minute Mirror ran the headline “Arslan Ash wins EVO Tekken France 2025”. Minute Mirror
What Makes His Success So Inspiring
- Overcoming adversity — financial struggles, visa denials, language and travel barriers were part of his journey.
- Consistency & evolution — He remained at the top through different game versions (Tekken 7 → Tekken 8).
- Global recognition for Pakistan — His wins put Pakistan’s esports scene on the map.
- Legacy beyond trophies — He inspires youth, gamers, and students to believe that greatness can start anywhere.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the Tekken 8 Championship in 2025?
Arslan Ash from Pakistan won the Tekken 8 Championship at EVO France 2025, defeating South Korea’s JeonDDing in a thrilling grand final.
How much money did Arslan Ash win?
Arslan Ash earned €7,400 (around USD 8,670) as prize money for his EVO France 2025 victory, along with global recognition and sponsorship opportunities.
Who is the champion of Arslan EVO?
Arslan Ash is the EVO Champion for Tekken 8 (2025) and holds the record for seven EVO titles, the most by any player in Tekken’s history. He has been crowned champion at EVO events in Japan, Las Vegas, and France.
How many tournaments has Arslan Ash won?
As of 2025, Arslan Ash has won over 10 major international tournaments, including:
- 7× EVO Championships
- Tekken World Tour Finals 2023
- CEO 2021
- Combo Breaker 2022
His victories span both Tekken 7 and Tekken 8, making him one of the most successful players in fighting game esports.
Legacy and Inspiration
Arslan’s success story represents hope and hard work. He showed that even with limited access to technology and training, talent and dedication can conquer the global stage. His journey has inspired thousands of young Pakistani gamers to chase their dreams in esports.
“I always believed that hard work beats everything,” Arslan once said — a quote that now symbolizes Pakistan’s rise in the global gaming scene.
