Ivan Vlasov takes the Phygital Dancing.Just Dance crown at GOTF 2025

The Phygital Dancing.Just Dance competition at the Games of the Future Abu Dhabi 2025 powered by ADNOC reached a show-stopping climax today (Sunday 21 December)), when Ivan Vlasov - known in the arena and online as myakekcya – was crowned the ultimate phygital dance champion.

Ivan’s journey to victory was defined by flawless routine execution, dynamic stage presence and an unshakeable focus under pressure. In the fiercely contested final, Ivan edged out Tiago Silva (Viagonce), who delivered an exceptional performance to take second place. Sebastian Carocielli (JustBlue) rounded out the podium with a superb display of skill and showmanship to secure third place.

From the opening match to the final beat, the atmosphere was electric as 16 elite dancers battled in a discipline that blends real-world movement with digital precision. Each round tested rhythm, stamina and strategy, pushing competitors to the limit as they danced for glory.

The all-day contest began at pace, with the opening rounds immediately setting the tone. Konstantin Fominykh (ricky), Tiago Silva (Viagonce), Ilia Pozhidaev (ipoz), Sebastian ⁠Carocielli (JustBlue), Daniil Charapko (Donchess), Marian Florez Perez (MAIFO) and Joseph Cordero (Aazzlano) claimed victories in the first four matches – each played as a best-of-three – gaining early momentum. With more than 30 matches played across the day, the competition demanded both physical endurance and digital precision from every contender.

Despite strong expectations, several fan favourites exited earlier than anticipated. Just Dance stalwarts Dora Salinas (SoyDoraMora), founder of Just Dance Venezuela and Just Dance LATAM, and Dina Morisset (TheFairyDina), winner of the Olympic Esports Series 2023, both suffered early defeats, highlighting the depth and competitiveness of the field.

The semi-finals delivered some of the closest contests of the day, with margins tightening and routines executed under maximum pressure. It was here that Ivan Vlasov (myakekcya) and Tiago Silva (Viagonce) demonstrated exceptional precision and rhythm to secure their places in the final round in closely contested matches.

In the decisive final showdown, Ivan Vlasov’s (myakekcya) control, musicality and consistency proved decisive. He overcame a strong challenge from Tiago Silva (Viagonce), who finished second, while Sebastian Carocielli (JustBlue) completed the podium in third place after an impressive run through the later stages of the competition.

Visibly thrilled with his achievement, Ivan said: “I’m super tired, emotionally and physically, but also super happy. But the win costs something, and that’s good. This overall event concept was something I had never explored before, something completely new, and I really loved the city where it took place.”

Second place winner, Tiago, added: "The final round was amazing and the event is really good. Overall, my experience at the Games of the Future 2025 was also amazing. I want to be in Kazakhstan next year and try again and keep going."

Phygital Dancing.Just Dance becomes the fourth discipline to conclude at the Games of the Future 2025, following the crowning of champions in Battle of Robots,MOBA PC. Dota 2, Battle Royale.Featuring Fortnite . With four titles now decided, the excitement across Abu Dhabi continues to build.

The action resumes on Monday 22 December with the semi-finals of Phygital Football powered by ADNOC and Phygital Basketball.3on3 FreeStyle brought to you by M42, the start of Phygital Fighting.FATAL FURY: City of the Wolves, and ongoing competitions across MOBA Mobile.Mobile Legends: Bang Bang and Phygital Shooter.Counter-Strike 2.

For the full Games of the Future 2025 timetable and all results so far, visit our schedule page here.