Stage 2 of the StarLadder Budapest Major 2025 became the toughest phase of the tournament. There were no easy wins anymore — only players who kept their composure and showed consistent performance in the most intense matches managed to advance. This stage produced one of the strongest collections of individual performances: the list of best players included elite snipers, sharp riflers, and several major breakthroughs — from PARIVISION’s rising stars to FaZe’s stable core and the key contributors from Passion UA.
w0nderful (NAVI) — 1.77 rating | 4 maps
w0nderful became the standout player of Stage 2. His 1.77 rating, +39 K-D, and incredible 1.98 K/D are numbers rarely seen even at Majors. Against Imperial and B8, he dictated the pace with precise AWP shots, aggressive peaks, and confident retakes. His composure in clutch situations secured several decisive rounds for NAVI.
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b1t (NAVI) — 1.56 rating | 4 maps
b1t delivered a performance reminiscent of his peak in 2021. A 1.56 rating, +35 K-D, and 1.88 K/D marked him as one of the best riflers of the entire Major. He consistently won duels, and his deadly aim powered NAVI through the opening matches. Together, the w0nderful + b1t duo became the most efficient pairing of Stage 2.
nota (PARIVISION) — 1.49 rating | 5 maps
nota became the first major breakout player for PARIVISION. He was the heart of the team throughout Stage 2: consistent in duels, smart in positioning, and impactful with +23 K-D. PARIVISION faced several difficult matches, and nota often kept them alive with key clutch wins.
Maka (3DMAX) — 1.33 rating | 8 maps
Maka reaffirmed his status as one of France’s best snipers. Despite playing a demanding 8 maps, he maintained 1.29 K/D and +26 K-D. His AWP provided 3DMAX with early-round advantages, especially on Ancient.
Twistzz (FaZe) — 1.30 rating | 4 maps
Twistzz once again kept FaZe afloat during their toughest moments. His 1.30 rating came from pure discipline — strong trading, reliable positioning, and minimal mistakes. Canada produced another playoff-caliber performer.
jcobbb (FaZe) — 1.25 rating | 4 maps
Alongside Twistzz, jcobbb became one of FaZe’s stabilizing elements in Stage 2. With +17 K-D, solid retakes, and high impact in mid-rounds, he proved to be essential. His match against Aurora was one of his finest performances of 2025.
frozen (FaZe) — 1.24 rating | 4 maps
frozen — the third FaZe member in the best players list — showed his trademark versatility. He looked confident both as a trading rifler and as an anchor. His +18 K-D and stability in late-round scenarios confirmed his status as an elite rifler.
AW (PARIVISION) — 1.19 rating | 5 maps
The second PARIVISION representative in the rankings. AW played the role of an aggressive entry, constantly creating space for his team. His +13 K-D and 1.14 K/D may not be record-setting, but they were extremely reliable under pressure. His synergy with nota was one of the key reasons for PARIVISION’s Stage 2 success.
Wicadia (Aurora) — 1.19 rating | 6 maps
Turkey’s rising star once again proved his potential. In 6 maps, he delivered +13 K-D with an aggressive playstyle and fast decision-making. Aurora did not manage to reach the 2–1 bracket, but Wicadia still became one of their best individual performers.
Grim (Passion UA) — 1.18 rating | 8 maps
Grim returned to form after several inconsistent months. His 1.18 rating, +21 K-D, and strong multi-kill rounds kept Passion UA competitive even in difficult series. He became the most impactful player of his lineup and a key stabilizer for the team.
Skin.Club Pick’em Challenge
Running alongside the StarLadder Budapest Major 2025 is the Skin.Club Pick’em Challenge — an interactive feature where fans predict match results, choose advancing teams, and earn points throughout the tournament. By making accurate picks, participants unlock rewards ranging from premium skins to rare gloves and knives, with the ultimate prize being the iconic AWP | Dragon Lore.
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Key Outcomes of Stage 2
Stage 2 in Budapest showcased major individual performances and clear team identities:
- NAVI featured the most dominant duo of the stage — w0nderful + b1t.
- PARIVISION emerged as one of the biggest surprises thanks to nota and AW.
- FaZe demonstrated world-class stability with three players in the best performers list.
Aurora and Passion UA each found their standout stars. Stage 2 set the tone for the rest of the Major: the balance of power continues shifting, and individual skill plays a critical role heading into Stage 3.
