Blizzard releases statement following controversial suspension of Hearthstone player Blitzchung

Blizzard Entertainment has finally responded to criticism of their decision to suspend Chung “Blitzchung” Ng Wai after he expressed his support for the liberation of Hong Kong during the Hearthstone Asia-Pacific Grandmasters broadcast last weekend.

Blizzard took action against Blitzchung after he removed his mask and said “Liberate Hong Kong, revolution of the age,” during a post-match interview that was broadcasted over the weekend.

On Monday, declared that Blitzchung had violated competition rules and that he would be removed from Grandmasters immediately. He would be stripped of his prize money – which would have equated to $10,000 before deductions – and also receive a 12-month ban from Hearthstone esports.

Blizzard also ceased working with the two shoutcasters who were hosting the Asia-Pacific Grandmasters.

[BREAKING] Hong Kong Hearthstone player @blitzchungHS calls for liberation of his country in post-game interview:https://t.co/3AgQAaPioj

@Matthieist #Hearthstone pic.twitter.com/DnaMSEaM4g

— Inven Global (@InvenGlobal) October 6, 2019

Today’s statement attempts to provide more clarity regarding the controversial situation. J. Allen Brack, the president of Blizzard Entertainment, reveals that Blitzchung’s suspension will be reduced to six months and that he will now receive the Season 2 prize money that had been stripped from him.