Geek+Pop Recap with NAVI.AK
2025 already kicked off triumphantly in multiple nerd--or in this case, geek avenues, if so to speak. That being said, just a little over 2 weeks since the recently concluded Geek+Pop Alpha, we opened up our notepad to the niche we feel the most "at home" with: Video Games.
Your resident Fighting Game aficionado had a quick chat with the newly-crowned throne defender from Geek+Pop Alpha's Tekken 8 Champions Showdown, Natus Vincere's Alexandre "AK" Laverez. Truth be told, we have known the 24-year-old global champion since before the professional E-sports scene even became a fad, but this time, it was the perfect chance to poke his mind a little bit on how he sees life and the game at present.
—-
Pica: First off, we heard that you've been doing your OJT for the past months! If it's alright to ask, how has your 2025 been so far?
AK: 2025 has been good to me. I finished my OJT, and I am now preparing for my defense in College.
Pica: We are currently at the first quarter of the 2025, and have already surpassed the first year of Tekken 8. What are some of the general changes (if any) that you've observed from 2024 to the present? Let's start with gameplay like the meta and updates, then maybe the community. After that, you can talk about other factors that you wish to add.
AK: At first, Tekken 8 was more on “be aggressive if you want to win”. But now, with continuous adjustments, we have been seeing players succeeding by being more defensive rather than being aggressive. I think Tekken 8 will continue to change and that what makes the game fun and exciting to play with.
For the community, many players have adjusted or adapted on how to play Tekken 8. We have seen new players rising in tournaments and consistently placing in top 16. I am happy with these results because it shows that our community is thriving and continues to improve.
Pica: Let's talk about Geek+Pop. Initially, how was your entire journey leading to the Champions Showdown?
AK: The entire journey was fulfilling since we won the Champions Showdown. From losing in the qualifiers back at SM Makati to winning the lcq in Geek+Pop and winning the entire tournament, it was a fun experience. I learned a lot from my loss at SM Makati and made sure not to repeat my mistakes in the following games.
Pica: You faced off against quite a number of formidable opponents here at the Champions Showdown; some not even hailing from Metro Manila. While we know that you consider everyone as strong competition, as you commendably and humbly say, who would you say gave you the hardest time as you made your way through the tournament, if there's one?
AK: Everyone gave me a hard time as I made my way through the tournament.
Pica: Awesome! Congratulations on the big win, as well, staying undefeated all the way to the Finals! Granted this is your first big win for the year (stop me if I'm wrong), how does it feel?
AK: Thank you. I am happy because winning this tournament gave me the airplane ticket and EVO ticket in EVO Japan.
Pica: Having experienced multiple tournaments, more so the international ones (we both know the history), would you say that Geek+Pop is a tournament you'd go to in the future?
AK: Definitely! Geek+Pop is a nice event that continues to help the community, which is what the fighting game community needs.
Pica: I'd assume that aside from the Champions Showdown, you went around the venue! If so, what other stalls/areas caught your attention during Geek+Pop (if you purchased anything at all, maybe you can share)?
AK: Yes, I went around the venue to understand what the event is all about. I purchased cute things like cat pins and stickers, tom and jerry bricks, and more cat items.
Pica: On a deeper note,we recall that your monumental win at Combo Breaker 2024 could have potentially been your last international tournament, but in poetic manner, you came out victorious. For the knowledge of your fans, what keeps you going in tournaments, whether big or small?
AK: What drives me in joining in tournaments is the chance to do what I love the most, play Tekken. At the same time, I will be able to socialize, meet new and old friends in the community, and improve my gameplay. Lastly, I make sure that I play hard, and pray harder.
Pica: Lastly, what are you looking forward to on the next Geek+Pop?
AK: I am looking forward to another big event, and I hope that they will put Tekken there again.
Pica: Thank you very much, AK, like you, we're looking forward to see you in the next tournament! Stay blessed.
—-
NAVI link: https://navi.gg/en
AK FB page link: https://www.facebook.com/AKsapusomo
AK X account link: https://x.com/NAVI_AK_
Interview and article penned by Pica Lozano. Follow him on his social media to stay updated.
