PUTRAJAYA – The dynamic duo of Duane “Kelra” Pillas and King “K1NGKONG” Perez, known as the Double K connection, played a crucial role in Fnatic ONIC PH’s ascent during MPL Philippines Season 14.
After giving fans glimpses of his potential in previous seasons, the former TNC jungler finally broke out of his shell this season, proving he has what it takes to be a winner in the most competitive region of the ML:BB scene.
Meanwhile, despite numerous challenges that have tested his young career, the Gold Standard—already regarded as one of the best even without an MPL PH title—showed maturity beyond his years and proved his ability to thrive at the highest level.
K1NGKONG and Kelra’s contributions were pivotal in securing the Sonics’ first-ever MPL PH title, with K1NGKONG earning the Regular Season MVP award and Kelra bagging the Finals MVP honor.
Both players were instrumental in Fnatic ONIC PH’s return to prominence, making it fitting that they delivered the defining play of the M6 World Championship, securing the franchise’s first-ever world title.
With the M6 championship on the line, the Sonics launched a siege in the 14th minute, only to be met by a determined Team Liquid ID side. The Indonesians managed to take down Frince “Super Frince” Ramirez (Yve), Borris “Brusko” Parro (Khaleed), and Jann “Kirk” Gutierrez (Edith), keeping their chances alive.
However, Kelra (Irithel) found an opening in the middle lane while K1NGKONG (Alpha) held off the remaining opponents, giving Kelra just enough time to chip away at a significant portion of the Cavalry’s throne.
The former MSC MVP ran out of minions and had to back away momentarily before returning to deal the decisive blows that ended the grand finals series.
While it was a risky play that could have gone either way, Kelra said he never hesitated, knowing his teammates—especially K1NGKONG, the only one left alive at the time—trusted his decision.
“Hindi talaga ako nag-hesitate. Sinugal ko na lang ‘yung play, tinanong ko rin sila, sabi ko lang nung una habang nasa team fight na tatapusin ko,” Kelra said during the post-match press conference.
“Di ako nag-hesitate nun, sadyang nawalan lang ng (minions). Nung nakita ko na may (minions) na ulit, bumalik ako para tapusin ulit,” he added.
For his part, K1NGKONG said he never doubted Kelra’s decision and fully trusted his teammate. For him, that trust is what sets Fnatic ONIC PH apart from the rest.
“Kalmado pa rin nun eh, kumbaga sumunod na lang din ako sa call ni Kelra. Sinuportahan ko ‘yung call niya na kaya tapusin kaya umalalay ako sa kanya,” he said.
“Para sa akin pinakamahalaga ‘yung trust pagdating sa pagbuo pa lang ng isang team eh. Kasi hindi naman gagana ‘yung isang team kung walang trust.”
