Level Up: MLBB Stars Share Stories of Loss and Resilience in New Prime Video Docuseries
Photo from Moonton
Level Up: MLBB Stars Share Stories of Loss and Resilience in New Prime Video Docuseries
Behind every highlight reel and championship banner, Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) athletes are fighting battles few ever see. That’s the heart of Level Up, a new Amazon Prime Video docuseries debuting on June 6, which turns the spotlight toward three of MLBB’s most inspiring athletes—Sanford, Chell, and Cinny—as they share the deeply personal stories that shaped them.
Part of the Esports World Cup (EWC) coverage, Level Up reveals the emotional toll, sacrifices, and grit that power the global MLBB esports scene—reaching far beyond the Land of Dawn.
Sanford: A brother, a son, and a champion
Sanford “Sanford” Vinuya, a three-time MPL champion with Team Liquid Philippines, recounts the immense pressure he faced as the family’s breadwinner after his father suffered a stroke.
“Being featured in the docuseries is important to me,” Sanford said. “I want the world to know that no matter how competitive tournaments are, we’re still people who face real-life challenges. It’s not just about winning—we need to give importance to the things that matter most, like family.”
Sanford’s episode, premiering June 13, dives into his emotional and physical preparation for MSC 2024 at EWC, while carrying the weight of personal hardship and national pride.
Chell and Cinny: Playing through grief
Indonesian sisters Michelle “Chell” Siswanto and Cindy “Cinny” Siswanto of Team Vitality also open up about heartbreak. The two were en route to compete in the MLBB Women’s Invitational (MWI) when they lost their grandfather—the very day they landed in Riyadh.
Despite the grief, the sisters powered through the competition, honoring their family and flag. Their story will be featured in the third episode of Level Up on June 20.
“With this docuseries, we would love to see our fans stay passionate about their love for the game,” said Cinny. “If you truly love this path, I hope you pursue it wholeheartedly and do it for yourself and the people you love.”
“It’s a meaningful opportunity to represent women in gaming,” added Chell. “Female players deserve a spotlight, and we’re honored to be included.”
More than a game
Level Up reflects the expanding global reach and human side of MLBB esports, says Ray Ng, Head of Esports Ecosystem at MOONTON Games.
“Having Sanford, Chell, and Cinny featured in an international docuseries recognizes their struggles and achievements,” Ray shared. “We’re proud of the stories they’re sharing. They not only represent MLBB’s reach—they embody its values of grit, passion, and inclusivity.”
A new era for MLBB Esports
MOONTON’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity continues to grow. During the inaugural EWC in 2024, MLBB was the only title to feature both an open and a women’s tournament. Now, MWI at EWC 25 expands to 16 teams, while MSC adds Wild Card slots for Japan and Vietnam, further cementing MLBB’s international scope.
But for the athletes, the challenge remains the same: one game, two titles, and a lifetime of stories behind every play.
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