Once Upon a Time in Dota - xiao8, The Director

Today is the birthday of Zhang "xiao8" Ning, the TI4-winning captain of Newbee. Also known as “The Director”, he is single-handedly responsible for over 69% of all player retirements in the region. Here is everything you need to know about his illustrious Dota 2 career.

Here's to The Director

The man who's always had a plan, Zhang "xiao8" Ning was the mastermind behind Newbee's TI-winning run in 2004. Most Dota fans will know him for his tendency to retire and then un-retire shortly thereafter, or the unique quirk of finding a partner on a televised dating show. Chinese model Jie Zhao was by her side during his TI win, though the relationship was not to last. Not everything is meant to have a fairytale ending.

Today, XIao8 plies his trade as EHOME's coach. Who knows, maybe he will make yet another comeback if results don't go their way this DPC season. But even if he doesn't, no one can take anything away from his incredible career, one which saw his name enscribed upon the Aegis of Champions and bring in $1,831,266 in prize money over a six-and-a-half-year period.

You can check out all Once Upon a Time in Dota episodes here!

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