Looks like big names in the fighting game community are going to stay away from a big presence in the eSports scene, as Bandai Namco and NetherRealm Studios have withdrawn their support for WePlay — following the controversial partnership with illicit gambling company 1xbet.

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Making statements posted at their official Twitter pages, the makers of fighting game franchise giants in Tekken and Mortal Kombat respectively have stated they will not be participating in future WePlay events.

Here’s what Bandai Namco wrote on their Twitter page.

“Bandai Namco Entertainment is contantly striving to deliver the best eSports tournaments and events to please our players and fans. Due to differences in vision and professional standards, we will no longer be working with WePlay as an eSports tournament organizing partner.”

And here’s NetherRealm’s statement.

“NetherReal Studios is constantly striving to foster the best eSports tournaments for our dedicated fans and community. Due to differences in vision, we will no longer allow our games to be utilized in WePlay operated eSports events.”

Controversy on WePlay’s partnership with 1xbet drew criticism due to the latters behavior and reputation — including running illegal gambling casinos and not charging personal income tax from winnings. The illicit activities have remained sketchy in the eyes of many, and thus Bandai Namco and NetherRealm’s decision to pull out of WePlay events is totally understandable.

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