by Derrick Maechler

Over the course of 2010, we were treated to some truly epic Tekken 6 showdowns. Choosing the best and narrowing it down to five was a difficult task, but these matches represent some of the greatest moments that the Season had to offer. Incredible domination runs, last minute victories, come-from-behind triumphs: Tekken 6 at MLG has never failed to disappoint.

5.) Just Frame James vs. Knee – D.C. 1v1 Winners Bracket Round 4

This matchup had a lot riding on it, with Just Frame James out to defend his title from Raleigh and Knee out for blood after losing to Fighting GM in Columbus. As the match went on, Knee managed to take the advantage after the 3rd match, bringing things to 2-1. At this point, James turned up the heat and took the next five rounds in a row. Unfortunately for James, he was unable to repeat this victory when the two met again later in the tournament, but that doesn’t detract from the impressiveness of this match.

4.) Kor vs. Holeman – Orlando Grand Finals

One of the things that made this match so amazing was the fact that Kor went in with a two match disadvantage, since it was a continuation match from their previous encounter. While most assumed Holeman would have this tournament in the bag, it is difficult to accurately predict what will happen when the competition level is this high. Kor took a lot of risks during this set, all of which paid off, making him the first MLG Champion of the season.

3.) Mr. Naps, Crow, and Kor vs. Brian Nichols, Big Boi, and Pokchop – Raleigh 3v3 Grand Finals

This match was probably one of the most shocking of the Season for one simple reason; Brian Nichols almost managed to defeat team Complexity twice, using arguably the worst character in the game. Crow made things look extremely one-sided early on by quickly bringing the score to 5-1, but that’s when the magic began; Brian Nichols brought the score up to 4-5 before finally getting taken down in the last hit of the last round in his second matchup with Crow. That kind of performance is not something you see every day out of a Kuma player, especially against a team like that.

2.) Fighting GM vs. Knee – Columbus Losers Bracket Finals

This matchup is one that has gone down in history in the competitive Tekken community. It was a continuation set from their previous encounter, where Knee completely annihilated Fighting GM 3-1. Knee comfortably took the first match of the continuation set, but that was before Fighting GM decided to live up to his name. After that first loss, this match was all about him, as he took the next five matches in a row. It was an unprecedented victory against the infamous Knee, and one that has yet to be duplicated.

1.) Fighting GM vs. Just Frame James – Raleigh Finals

If one matchup had to symbolize the entire Season, it would have to be this one. The last time these two played (which was outside of MLG) GM managed to completely destroy Just Frame James, but James didn’t allow that to get to him. It was a tug of war throughout each game, with arguably the most emotional finish of any match at any stop of the 2010 Pro Circuit. The match simply has to be seen to be believed.

In a Season so full of drama and excitement, it was incredibly difficult to pick just five. Head to MLG.tv for full footage of all the year’s Tekken 6 action. Thanks to all those who competed, and all those who came out and spectated; you made it an incredible Season!