Dota 2’s next tier-one event is on the horizon and teams are preparing for FISSURE Universe Episode 4, a $500,000 prize pool event with sixteen renowned participants ready to clash in an online setting. This tournament comes only five days after the conclusion of another major event, PGL Wallachia Season 3, and many would assume that teams remain in similar form. However, there have been some changes in terms of roster and results, and the predictions for this particular competition have been slightly shaken.
Among the sixteen teams, who would dominate and who would struggle? Read on for our list of favorites, dark horses, and underdogs below!
Favorites of FISSURE Universe Eps 4
Team Liquid
The biggest favorite of FISSURE Universe Eps 4 is undoubtedly Team Liquid, the recently crowned champions of PGL Wallachia Season 3. The two-time The International winning organization is known for its consistency, prevailing on top years throughout.
However, Liquid’s return to the top this season didn’t come with some hiccups. Team Liquid suffered underwhelming results after their TI win last year, which followed the departure of offlaner Neta "33" Shapira, who was then replaced by Jonáš "SabeRLight-" Volek. The team couldn’t reach podium finishes, something the team consistently achieved in prior seasons. However, their victory at PGL Wallachia Season 3 means that Liquid is back on top, making them the biggest threat in FISSURE Universe Eps 4.
Team Spirit
Another two-time TI champion makes our list, and for very good reason. Like Team Liquid, Team Spirit is known for their consistency and ability to deliver high-quality performances when it matters most. The legendary squad excels at experimenting and adapting, making them a constant threat in any event. Additionally, they have started achieving impressive results in the first quarter of the year, including their recent victory at DreamLeague Season 25.
Team Falcons
Team Falcons may be harder to read, but their consistency this first quarter of the year solidifies their place on our list of team favorites. While Falcons hasn’t claimed any victories this season, the team has achieved podium finishes in three out of four events they have participated in this year. The pattern says it all!
Dark Horses of FISSURE Universe Eps 4
Tundra Esports
This may be a controversial take, but after Tundra Esports’ roster change, the team is knocked off our favorites list and is now a dark horse instead. Their drastic shift in the carry position, now fielding Crystallis instead of dyrachyo, may result in chemistry and drafting issues, especially as FISSURE Universe is the new squad’s first tournament together. Tundra could soar or they could take an unfamiliar fall, there’s no telling with the new lineup.
PARIVISION
PARIVISION has had a strong season so far, even after changing their carry player earlier this year. In 2025, the team secured two 3rd-place finishes at FISSURE Playground #1 and DreamLeague Season 25. However, they have participated in fewer events compared to other teams. FISSURE Universe Episode 4 will be PARIVISION's first tournament in 20 days, and their absence from the previous tournament makes them a difficult team to predict.
Gaimin Gladiators
Gaimin Gladiators has faced a challenging period since The International concluded last year, with Watson replacing dyrachyo. The team struggled with underwhelming results, finishing near the bottom in tournaments and failing to qualify for events. However, in the recent PGL Wallachia Season 3, the Gladiators delivered an impressive performance, suggesting that they may be on the verge of a comeback. FISSURE Universe could be the event where they finally regain their form - or it may not.
Aurora Gaming
Former BetBoom players have reunited under Aurora Gaming, and they may rekindle their past success in a new organization. The Eastern European stars of Aurora have significant potential, and they made a strong debut at PGL Wallachia Season 3, finishing in the top 6. The question now is whether they can elevate their game to secure a podium finish, or if they'll remain strong - but just shy of the top.
Underdogs of FISSURE Universe Eps 4
Like most tournaments this year, the underdogs remain largely unchanged, featuring familiar faces. We’ll see teams from traditionally weaker regions, such as Southeast Asia and the Americas, take their shot in this $500,000 prize pool event. Talon Esports, the usual SEA representative, will be joined by BOOM Esports, who recently underwent roster changes.
Other underdogs include North America's Wildcard and M80, formerly known as beastcoast, one of the top teams from South America. Including Team Tidebound in our underdogs list was a tough decision, as the team has shown promising moments, but they seemingly still have a long way to go.
We’ll also see several tier-two teams from Eastern Europe, such as 1win, Night Pulse, and One Move, enter the competition. While they may surprise with a few wins, there are no high expectations for these teams to thrive in such a competitive event.
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