Nova Esports Claim Honor of Kings Invitational Season 3 Crown in Thrilling Seven-Game Finals

Malaysia’s Nova Esports have been crowned champions of the Honor of Kings Invitational Season 3 after defeating South Korea’s Nongshim Redforce in an epic seven-game grand finals that went all the way to an Ultimate Battle on Saturday (1 March).

The tournament favorites lived up to expectations, securing the championship and claiming the US$100,000 grand prize from the tournament’s US$300,000 prize pool. The finals had a distinct David versus Goliath feel from the moment both teams stepped on stage. Despite being underdogs, Nongshim Redforce showed no fear, striking first blood against Nova Esports with aggressive play that controlled the tempo and secured the opening game of the Honor of Kings Invitational Season 3 finals.

@novahokgg are your 2025 #HOKInvitationalS3 Champions!

The #Supernova have overcame all challenges, going through 2 Ultimate Battles and emerged Victorious!

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https://t.co/SdNTPfeDat#HOKInvitationalS3 #HOKS3 #2025HOK #HOKInvitational… pic.twitter.com/qxZYGhcBGX

— HoK Global Esports (@HoKEsports) March 1, 2025

With their backs against the wall, Nova Esports rallied to win game six, forcing a decisive Ultimate Battle for the championship. This marked the third time Nongshim Redforce faced this situation in the tournament, while it was the second such instance for Nova Esports.

Despite Nongshim Redforce’s previous experience in Ultimate Battles, Nova Esports rode their momentum with vigor and confidence, establishing an advantageous position early.  Nova Esports were favored to win the tournament before it began, and they validated that prediction by dominating the Group Stage.

In the first round of knockouts, Nova Esports outclassed fellow Malaysian team AG Global with a perfect 4-0 victory. However, tournament dark horse Team Vitality pushed them to their limit in the semifinals, forcing Nova’s first game seven Ultimate Battle of the tournament. The Malaysian squad prevailed 4-3 to secure their spot in the grand finals against Nongshim Redforce.

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