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The Street Fighter community has been rocked by the news that Kakeru “Kakeru” Watanabe, one of Japan’s most accomplished players, has officially announced his retirement from competitive play. The announcement, made via social media, comes after a period of two months of inactivity, and the player cited a “neural dysfunction” as the primary reason behind this difficult decision.

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A Career Defined by Skill and Dedication

Kakeru first entered the competitive Street Fighter scene in 2021, quickly rising through the ranks thanks to his exceptional skill and strategic mind. He achieved one of the highest honors in the game by winning Capcom Cup 11 in March, solidifying his place as one of Japan’s top Street Fighter competitors.

His momentum continued with a second-place finish at Evo 2025, proving that he remained a force to be reckoned with even at the international level. Over the course of his career, Kakeru earned approximately $1.4 million (~£1.05m) in prize money, leaving an indelible mark on the Street Fighter esports landscape.

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Kakeru’s Statement

Reflecting on his decision, Kakeru shared:

“The team and I have carefully discussed the possibilities for continuing my activities in the future, but I judged that it would be difficult to continue as a player. I will leave ZETA Division by the end of the year and will focus on recovering my health going forward.”

It’s a heartfelt departure, emphasizing both his dedication to the game and his need to prioritize personal well-being.

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ZETA Division Adjusts Its Roster

Since entering Street Fighter in 2024, ZETA Division has maintained a strong presence in the competitive scene, with nine players competing in various tournaments. The organization currently sits fourth in the Street Fighter League (SFL) Pro-JP 2025 regular season, vying for a spot in the playoffs, where the top three teams from each division secure qualification.

In response to Kakeru’s retirement, ZETA Division has recruited Yamaguchi, a rising talent who recently finished in the top 12 at Evo France 2025. The addition of Yamaguchi is expected to help the team remain competitive in the SFL while continuing to pursue qualification for the SFL World Championship 2025, with its ¥15m (~£73,725) prize pool on the line.

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Legacy and Impact

Kakeru leaves the competitive scene as one of the most successful and influential Street Fighter players in Japan’s history. His victories, strategic gameplay, and sportsmanship have inspired countless players and fans, making his departure a poignant moment for the community.

While fans will undoubtedly miss seeing him compete, the focus now turns to his health and recovery, as well as the continued rise of the next generation of Street Fighter talent.

Esports Insider wishes Kakeru all the best in his recovery and future endeavors beyond competitive play.

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