IN an exclusive interview, Tryke Gutierrez, CEO of Tier One Entertainment, shared insights on Blacklist International's journey and the future of esports.
"We exceeded what we expected," Gutierrez said, reflecting on Blacklist's rise. When the team launched in 2020, few believed in their potential.
"We were just a bunch of people with an idea," he admitted.
Fast forward to today, and Blacklist is a world champion. "It's beyond what we imagined," he added, expressing gratitude for their success.
Beyond victories, Gutierrez discussed business decisions. At one point, Tier One had an opportunity to sell.
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"We weren't actively looking, but when the offer came, we had to assess if it made sense long-term," he explained.
For him, it wasn't just about money but ensuring alignment with the company's goals. "It was a chance to reassess our position," he said.
Gutierrez is confident in esports' future. "I fully believe in esports," he stated but emphasized it's more than just Mobile Legends (MLBB).
"Esports is global, with many games shaping the ecosystem," he noted. With Western markets growing and major events like the Esports World Cup setting trends, he sees massive potential.
What's next? Gutierrez aims for sustainable growth.
"Esports is thriving, but there's room to grow," he said, focusing on smart moves to secure long-term success.