MLBB’s premier event for North America, NACT, is officially pausing it’s league operations for the rest of 2025.
When North America (NA) was not included in the participating regions for the M7 World Championship, fans had a lot of questions. A few days after the announcement, MOONTON Games made a statement that explained everything.
The reason for the exclusion is due to the North America Challenger Tournament (NACT) pausing its Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) league operations for the rest of 2025. However, it won’t last long, as there are plans to return for 2026 with a better system in place.
NACT pauses in 2025
For years, NACT has served as the central stage for both veteran and aspiring MLBB pro players in North America. This is where teams like BloodThirstyKings (BTK), TheOhioBrothers, and The Valley had their first big break before they joined the international stage. Needless to say, this league played a vital role in growing NA’s MLBB esports ecosystem. However, Moonton has confirmed that NACT will be paused in 2025, with no official MLBB league operations planned for the rest of the year.
Instead, the MOONTON Games and the region’s league committee will be putting their efforts into refining its MLBB esports events for 2026 and beyond. In the meantime, the publisher still supports partner events throughout 2025. This means community-driven events continue, ensuring competitive players stay included.
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What this means for NACT MLBB players and fans
While some may see the pause as a setback, the bigger picture suggests long-term growth. For NA MLBB players, the NACT break provides time to prepare for a more structured competitive scene in 2026. For fans, it sets the stage for a future where North America could have stronger representation in international competitions.
Understandably, most fans are skeptical of this. A lot shared their concerns for the league’s future following the departure of its iconic team, BTK, as the members move to competing in Honor of Kings esports.
In reality, MLBB esports is still alive and kicking. MPL Malaysia is shifting to a franchise league after Season 16. It will be the next region to follow this format alongside the Philippines and Indonesia leagues. The shift will provide more support from teams and players, ensuring they get to keep playing while also receiving fair compensation for their efforts.
With NA’s absence due to NACT on hold, Japan makes a comeback on the MLBB world stage. One representative from the region will compete in the M7 Wild Card Stage, where they fight for a ticket to the main stage. NA’s return in 2026 could mark a new chapter in its bid to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the world’s best.
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