Topias Miikka Taavitsainen, better known as “Topson,” is a legendary figure in the world of Dota 2. The Finnish player revolutionized the game’s competitive scene through his innovative playstyle, strategic mastery, and an ability to defy conventions. From an unknown pub star to a two-time The International (TI) champion with OG, his journey stands as one of the most inspirational stories in Dota 2 history. In this article, we explore Topson’s life, career, achievements, and what made him one of the greatest mid-laners the game has ever seen.
Early Life and Background
Topson was born on April 14, 1998, in Haukipudas, Finland. He was raised in a large family with seven brothers and four sisters. His father ran a construction company, and the family adhered to the Laestadian Faith, a highly conservative sect of Christianity.
Introduced to Dota 2 by his brothers at the age of eight, Topson quickly developed a passion for the game. However, his parents were initially skeptical about his career choice in gaming. Before fully committing to professional Dota 2, he trained as an electrician and later studied in a cooking school. Eventually, with immense dedication and talent, he silenced doubts by becoming one of the best Dota 2 players in the world.
Career – The Rise of a Champion
Early Career and Introduction to Competitive Play
Topson began his professional career in 2017 when he joined the Russian esports organization SFT e-sports. Although the team failed to achieve noteworthy results, his individual skill stood out. Recognized for his creative and unpredictable mid-lane play, he decided to focus on streaming and climbed the European MMR ladder rapidly, reaching nearly 9000 MMR in a short span of time.
Joining OG – The Cinderella Story
In 2018, OG faced major setbacks when Fly and s4 left the team just before The International 2018 (TI8). Needing fresh talent, OG took a massive gamble by bringing in Topson, who had never played in a significant LAN event before.
Despite the challenges, OG secured a spot in TI8 through open qualifiers, marking thebeginning of their legendary Cinderella story. Against all odds, OG dominated the competition, with Topson playing a crucial role in their victory. His unconventional mid-lane hero choices like Zeus and Pugna baffled opponents, and OG defeated PSG.LGD in a thrilling grand final to claim the TI8 championship, earning over $11 million in prize money.
Back-to-Back The International Wins – TI9 Triumph
Following their stunning TI8 victory, many doubted OG’s ability to replicate their success. However, Topson and his teammates proved skeptics wrong by winning The International 2019 (TI9) in historic fashion. Their aggressive playstyle and synergy dismantled opponents, with Topson once again at the forefront.
In the grand finals of TI9 against Team Liquid, OG secured a dominant 3-1 victory. Topson’s signature heroes, such as Monkey King and Tiny, played a vital role in dismantling Liquid’s strategies. Becoming the first-ever two-time and back-to-back TI winners, OG cemented themselves as Dota 2 legends, and Topson’s reputation as an elite mid-laner was solidified.
Later Career – T1 and Tundra Esports
After The International 2021, OG failed to maintain their dominance, leading Topson to take a break from professional gaming. In 2022, he briefly joined T1 as a stand-in for the Southeast Asia TI qualifiers. Though they put up a strong fight, T1 did not qualify for The International 2022.
In 2023, Topson made another comeback by joining Tundra Esports as a replacement for Saksa, who stepped down due to health issues. Though Tundra didn’t win The International 2023, they achieved success in 2024 by securing a third-place finish at TI24 after losing to Gaimin Gladiators in the lower bracket finals.
Retirement from Professional Play
In 2024, Topson officially announced his retirement from competitive Dota 2. Citing family commitments and Finland’s mandatory military service, he made the decision to step away from professional esports, marking the end of an Era for one of Dota 2’s greatest players.
Topson’s Unique Playstyle
Topson’s playstyle is what truly set him apart from other mid-laners in Dota 2. Known for his aggressive and unpredictable approach, he constantly innovated and brought unconventional heroes to the meta.
Unlike traditional mid-laners who focus on maximizing farm, Topson thrived by creating chaos in the game. His ability to exploit unfavorable matchups and turn losing situations into winning ones made him one of the most feared mid players in the tournament scene.
- Unpredictable Hero Picks: Topson popularized heroes like Monkey King, Pugna, Zeus, and even unconventional mid heroes like Riki.
- Aggression Over Farm: He favored early aggression rather than passive farming, disrupting enemy cores and enabling his team.
- Adaptability: His ability to effortlessly switch playstyles ensured that he was never predictable.
Personal Life
Beyond Dota 2, Topson has always valued his family. He is married to Mawar Remy Taavitsainen, whom he met and appeared in public with after his first TI victory in 2019. The couple welcomed their daughter, Riina, on September 18, 2022.
Following Riina’s birth, Topson prioritized family life over competitive gaming, highlighting his devotion to his loved ones. Despite his retirement from active play, he remains involved in the Dota 2 scene through streaming and content creation.
Major Achievements and Tournament Earnings
- The International 2018 Winner – OG
- The International 2019 Winner – OG
- TI24 Third-Place Finish – Tundra Esports
- Total Prize Money Earned: Over $5.8 million
How to Play Mid Lane Like Topson
Inspired by Topson’s unique approach? Here’s a step-by-step guide to replicating his success in the mid lane:
Step 1: Master Unconventional Heroes
Unlike most mid players, Topson excelled at unusual hero choices. Experiment with heroes like Monkey King, Invoker, or Pugna to catch opponents off guard.
Step 2: Maintain an Aggressive Playstyle
Topson heavily emphasizes early pressure. Focus on securing kills rather than passively farming.
Step 3: Always Adapt to the Enemy
Analyze the matchup and change your build accordingly. Whether it’s rushing early mobility or survivability, adaptability is key.
FAQs – Topson and Dota 2
What is Topson’s real name?
Topias Miikka Taavitsainen.
When did Topson start playing Dota 2?
He started playing Dota 2 at the age of eight.
What team did Topson win The International with?
OG. He won back-to-back The International tournaments in 2018 and 2019.
Which heroes is Topson famous for?
Topson is known for unique picks like Monkey King, Invoker, Pugna, and Zeus.
Did Topson retire from Dota 2?
Yes, in 2024, he retired from professional play due to family commitments and military service.
What is Topson’s net worth?
His total esports earnings exceed $5.8 million, making him one of the top-earning Dota 2 players.
What teams did Topson play for?
Topson played for SFT e-sports, OG, T1, and Tundra Esports.
Did Topson ever play in SEA?
Yes, he briefly played for T1 in the SEA region for the TI11 qualifiers.
Is Topson streaming now?
Yes, after retiring, he focused on streaming and content creation.
Will Topson return to professional play?
As of now, he has no plans to return, but the Dota 2 community eagerly awaits any future moves.
