Kakeru Officially Departs ZETA DIVISION Following Retirement

Kakeru has officially departed from ZETA DIVISION today, confirming the end of his contract with the organization following his retirement from competitive play.

Key Takeaways:

• Official Departure: Kakeru has formally left ZETA DIVISION, finalizing the transition announced during his retirement in October.
• Health Priority: The decision stems from his ongoing battle with a "neurological dysfunction" that forced him to withdraw from the Capcom Pro Tour.
• Legacy: He leaves as one of the most dominant Street Fighter 6 players of the era, having won the prestigious Capcom Cup 11 for the title.

End of an Era for ZETA DIVISION

The Street Fighter community bid a somber farewell to one of its brightest stars today as Kakeru officially announced his departure from ZETA DIVISION. The move comes two months after the Japanese ace revealed he would be retiring from professional esports due to serious health concerns.

While the separation was expected (Kakeru had previously stated he would leave the team by the end of the year), the official announcement marks the final chapter of his tenure with the powerhouse organization. During his time with ZETA, Kakeru cemented himself as a global threat, known for his mechanical precision and mastery of JP. This skill led him to victory at the Esports World Cup (Gamers8) and eventually the world championship at Capcom Cup 11, succeeding the inaugural champion, UMA.

"I will leave ZETA DIVISION... and will focus solely on recovering my health going forward. The time I spent dedicating myself to esports as a competitor... is an irreplaceable treasure to me." — Kakeru (via earlier statement)

Details & Additional Information

Kakeru’s career was cut short by a condition diagnosed as "neurological dysfunction," which affected his ability to compete at the highest level. His spot on the ZETA DIVISION roster for the Street Fighter League Pro-JP was subsequently filled by Yamaguchi.

• Former Team: ZETA DIVISION
• Reason for Departure: Medical Retirement (Neurological Dysfunction)
• Career Highlights: Capcom Cup 11 Champion, Gamers8 Champion, Evo Finalist
• Replacement: Yamaguchi (SFL Roster)

What’s Next

Kakeru has made it clear that his primary focus remains his recovery. While he has recently been spotted playing casual ranked matches online (sparking hope among fans), there is no indication of a return to professional competition. The community continues to pour out support for the "Uncrowned King," wishing him a full recovery as he steps away from the spotlight.

Source: Kakeru_FGC Twitter