Matheus Santos Jungles Diniz, better known as KJ in the Dota 2 community, is one of Brazil’s leading professional players. With a career spanning multiple successful teams and an extensive list of achievements, KJ has established himself as a formidable support player, currently competing for HEROIC. His journey in Dota 2 is marked by remarkable milestones, tournament victories, and continual growth in MMR rankings, making him a key figure in the South American Dota 2 scene. This article provides an in-depth look at KJ’s career, achievements, statistics, and more.
KJ – Early Life and Introduction to Dota 2
Born on October 23, 1999, in Brazil, Matheus Santos Jungles Diniz, known as KJ, found his passion for competitive gaming early in life. Like many aspiring Dota 2 players, he started his journey in South America’s competitive scene, which has been growing significantly over the years.
His early days in Dota 2 involved grinding through the matchmaking ranks, where he honed his skills as a support player. The South American region, particularly Brazil, has had a challenging yet rapidly developing esports infrastructure. KJ’s dedication and talent soon placed him among the top players in his region.
KJ – Professional Career and Team History
KJ’s professional debut in the Dota 2 esports scene came in 2016, but after a short hiatus, he made a strong comeback in 2018, beginning a journey that would take him through multiple competitive teams.
NoPing e-sports
KJ’s notable stint began with NoPing e-sports, where he played during two different time periods—first from June 30, 2018, to September 30, 2019, and later from December 12, 2019, to July 2, 2020. This team played a crucial role in shaping his early career.
Team Brasil
After leaving NoPing e-sports, KJ joined Team Brasil from July 2, 2020, to December18, 2020. The team, consisting of some of Brazil’s most promising Dota 2 talents, allowed KJ to enhance his strategic play and leadership skills.
SG esports
In late 2020, KJ moved to SG esports, where he remained until October 20, 2021. This period saw some of the most significant achievements of his early career, with increased presence in international tournaments.
Return to NoPing e-sports
November 20, 2021, marked KJ’s return to NoPing e-sports, although his tenure lasted only a few months until February 15, 2022.
Wolf Team
Between February 27, 2022, and May 4, 2022, KJ was part of Wolf Team. He rejoined the team later in the year, from August 12, 2022, to January 9, 2023. His time at Wolf Team solidified his role as a top-tier support player.
Keyd Stars
KJ spent almost a year competing under Keyd Stars, from January 9, 2023, to December 8, 2023. The team participated in several top-tier tournaments, with KJ acting as a critical component in their overall success.
HEROIC – Current Team
In January 2024, KJ joined HEROIC, a significant step in his career. HEROIC is known for being a powerhouse organization, and KJ has been instrumental in the team’s recent performances on the international stage.
KJ – Playstyle and Strengths
As a support player, KJ has built a reputation for his adaptive playstyle, strong game sense, and ability to lead his team’s early-game maneuvers. His focus on vision control, efficient rotations, and securing objectives makes him a valuable asset to any team.
Signature Heroes
- Earthshaker – Known for delivering game-changing teamfight initiations.
- Shadow Shaman – A reliable pick for pushing strategies.
- Tusk – Used for aggressive rotations and ganking potential.
- Rubick – Exceptional at counterplay and ability stealing.
Contributions to Team Strategies
KJ’s ability to lead the game from the support position sets him apart. His map awareness and deep understanding of positioning allow his team to control key areas of the map, ensuring superior engagements.
KJ – MMR Milestones
MMR (Matchmaking Rating) is a significant benchmark in competitive Dota 2, showcasing a player’s skill level. KJ has accomplished remarkable MMR milestones:
- Reached 8,000 MMR on July 14, 2020
- Reached 10,000 MMR on August 3, 2023
- Reached 11,000 MMR on December 16, 2023
- Reached 13,000 MMR on October 6, 2024
- Reached 14,000 MMR on February 4, 2025
KJ – Tournament Results and Prize Winnings
Notable Tournament Performances
- PGL Wallachia Season 2 (October 2024) – 1st place ($300,000)
- The International 2024 (September 2024) – 9th-12th place ($55,483)
- Riyadh Masters 2024 (July 2024) – 13th-14th place ($70,000)
- DreamLeague Season 23 (May 2024) – 7th-8th place ($47,500)
Accumulating an estimated total career earnings of $228,965, KJ’s consistency in Tier 1 and Tier 2 tournaments proves his competitive strength.
How to Play Support Like KJ in Dota 2
Mastering Early Game Rotations
One of the key aspects of KJ’s support gameplay is early rotations. To imitate his playstyle:
- Always carry Observer and Sentry Wards to provide vision control.
- Assist core heroes in securing bounty runes.
- Rotate to mid-lane and side lanes at appropriate timings.
Itemization Priorities
Choosing the right items as a support is crucial. KJ often prioritizes:
- Boots of Tranquility – Ensures sustain in the laning phase.
- Glimmer Cape – Provides survivability against magic damage.
- Aghanim’s Shard – Enhances hero abilities and team synergy.
FAQs – KJ and Dota 2
Who is KJ in Dota 2?
KJ, also known as Matheus Santos Jungles Diniz, is a Brazilian professional Dota 2 player, currently playing for HEROIC.
What role does KJ play?
KJ primarily plays the support role, specializing in vision control and map dominance.
Has KJ participated in The International?
Yes, KJ has competed in The International, with his best performance at TI 2024, finishing 9th-12th.
Which teams has KJ played for?
KJ has played for NoPing e-sports, Team Brasil, SG esports, Wolf Team, Keyd Stars, and currently HEROIC.
What is KJ’s highest MMR?
KJ reached 14,000 MMR on February 4, 2025.
What are KJ’s most-played heroes?
His signature heroes include Earthshaker, Shadow Shaman, Rubick, and Tusk.
How much has KJ earned from tournaments?
KJ has earned approximately $228,965 in prize money.
How many matches has KJ played?
He has played over 8,347 matches with a win rate of 53.42%.
Which tournaments has KJ won?
KJ and his team won PGL Wallachia Season 2 in October 2024.
Where can I follow KJ’s Dota 2 matches?
You can track KJ’s stats and matches on platforms like BO3.gg.
