NuckleDu has been one of the strongest Street Fighter players in the world for over a decade, where he began winning tournaments at the age of 14 to help pay for his food while his parents were away. With his shakey home life, Du was thrust into the shady world of esports while a teenager, traveling the country and training in seedy areas with questionable sponsors to pursue his dream of being the best. Over the years, NuckleDu established himself as one of the strongest and most consistent players in the world, securing Evo top 8 appearances, Capcom Cup qualifications, and high profile legitimate sponsors. This all came to a head in the first Capcom Cup for SFV in 2016, where NuckleDu claimed 1st place. Due to his lack of guidance in this world, this lead to a financial misstep and Du owing over $140k in back taxes to the IRS. Now married with two children, Du has raised the bar in his dedication and perseverance as a professional Street Fighter player, grinding to secure his financial stability, pay his debts, and provide for his family. Du breaks down his journey from humble beginnings to being a leader in the professional fighting game scene, and his recent qualification into Capcom Cup XI.