Key Takeaways:
- The event has sparked fierce debate over inclusion, platforming, and community standards in esports.
- The Mana Summit will feature eight banned Melee players in an invite-only event on Sept 6–7.
- The tournament honors HAX$, a former pro who died after years of exile from the scene.
Invitational Honors Late HAX$, Sparks Debate Across Smash Community
A new tournament is reigniting tension in the Super Smash Bros. Melee scene. Scheduled for September 6–7, The Mana Summit is an invitational event exclusively featuring eight players who were banned from the Melee competitive circuit. The tournament doubles as a memorial for Aziz ‘HAX$’ Al-Yami, a talented player who passed away after years of battling mental health challenges worsened by his exclusion from the community.
The event is being organized by TheManaLord, a banned player who has long criticized the current state of the Smash community, alleging systemic exclusion and “cancel culture” targeting certain individuals.
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Organizers Challenge Smash’s Disciplinary Culture
TheManaLord, who himself was banned from several local events over transphobic remarks and controversial affiliations, claims the tournament is a rebellion against what he calls an “exclusionary social club.” He argues that many players have been banned without due process and that their livelihoods and mental health have suffered as a result.
“Our new community has the only rightful claim to call itself a competitive Smash Bros Melee family,” he wrote. “They’ve killed the spirit of Smash Bros. But we will stoke the flame again.”
Players confirmed to compete include Zion, Mekk, DaShizWiz, Westfallz, Chevy, Mura, Eikelmann, and TheManaLord himself.
Community Divided Over Redemption and Platforming
The Smash community is deeply split over the announcement. Critics argue that giving banned players a platform, especially those accused of hate speech or harassment, undermines efforts to create a safe and inclusive environment. Others see it as an important second chance for individuals they believe were unfairly removed from the scene.
Despite the backlash, the event has already raised over $2,000 via GoFundMe, highlighting a dedicated base of support. Yet the backlash from mainstream players and tournament organizers remains strong, especially in light of recent controversies like Mang0’s drop from Cloud9 and Cody Schwab’s call to boycott events tolerating toxic behavior
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