The Los Angeles Valiant of the Overwatch League (OWL) has dropped their entire roster and most of the coaching staff just before the 2021 season, as the team prepares to compete from China instead of North America.

2021 Roster Update: pic.twitter.com/wLegf51MAI
— Los Angeles Valiant (@LAValiant) January 29, 2021
 

The LA Valiant team shared the news on its Twitter handle. While the details are not disclosed, it is clear that the move will cause a change in staff. LA Valiant says it plans to compete in the 2021 OWL in China, where the pandemic is improving, citing visa issues due to COVID-19 pandemic. Unfortunately, most of the Los Angeles-based staff and players will not relocate to China.

On January 14, the LA Valiant announced that it would join NYXL and Philadelphia Fusion by moving the LA Valiant to China. The intention behind this move is to participate in live events. 

Update on our plans for the 2021 Season: pic.twitter.com/6WAIVHB9PI
— Los Angeles Valiant (@LAValiant) January 14, 2021
 

Many fans blamed Immortals Gaming Club (IGC), a company that owns LA Valiant, for the poor decision. Rumors have surfaced online that IGC has sold the OWL team to an unknown Chinese organization. LA Valiant quickly denied the rumor on Twitter. 

We would like to confirm that this rumor is false. 

IGC will continue to own the LA Valiant, and we are excited about the opportunity to grow the brand's global reach this year. https://t.co/Ma9fMDbvgo
— Los Angeles Valiant (@LAValiant) January 14, 2021
 

Though more details have yet to be revealed, it is clear that many players and staff will lose careers due to the sudden move. Adam "Adam" Soong and Brady "Agilities" Girardi signed with the Overwatch esports team just a few months ago. Brady "Agilities" Girardi joined during the offseason and will not get a chance to play under the LA Valiant banner.