Year after year, Canada Cup’s allure as the last chance qualifier for the prestigious Capcom Cup draws in players of legendary status from the international fighting game community. This year, six of the top 10 on the Capcom Pro Tour standings attended the tournament – players like Punk , NuckleDu , Yukadon and Problem X . And let’s not forget about this year's champion, Dogura .

For international competitors, Canada Cup is not only an opportunity to showcase honed skills, but a chance to experience the country’s gaming community – one often overlooked on the international stage.

This year, we had an opportunity to talk to a recurring guest, Daigo Umehara . Being his third visit, Umehara was greeted with classic Canadian hospitality and some tough competition. From signing his forthcoming manga, Daigo: The Beast , to new record long perfects, he had quite the weekend.

Diago Umehara fait un essai avec la Snap de Ryu. © Daigo Umehara

We spoke to Umehara about his favourite Street Fighter® memories, his thoughts on Canada's FGC and his longing to bring Evil Ryu to Street Fighter® V.

Prior to this year, you came to Canada Cup in 2010 and 2015. What about Canada keeps you coming back?

I’ve never really visited Canada, like the actual country. However, Canada Cup is one of my favourite tournaments to attend. Of course I have a few favourites in the States, but Canada Cup is definitely up there.

Do you have a favourite Canadian Street Fighter® player?

I’m not too sure about Street Fighter V just yet, however I do have a few favourites from Street Fighter IV. Big fan of JS Master and Air .

Do you think a Canadian will ever win EVO?

Maybe at some point! [laughs]

Which country do you think fosters the best Street Fighter® talent right now?

It would be between America and Japan. Trailing behind that would probably be Korea.

Who is your toughest opponent across these tournaments?

I can’t really beat any players who use Boxer. Players like Smug and PR Balrog always give me a hard time.

Everyone always talks about EVO Moment #37 back in 2004. What iconic moments stand out to you personally?

In my recent memory, two moments stand out to me. The first being right after EVO Moment #37 for the finals of 3rd Strike, and in 2009, the EVO Grand Finals between me and Justin Wong .

Which Street Fighter® game do you miss the most?

I enjoyed playing CVS 2 (Capcom vs. SNK 2 EO), but I think I spent the most time playing Street Fighter IV. I miss that game the most, for sure.

If you could bring over some characters from SFIV to SFV, who would you bring?

Evil Ryu in a heartbeat. [laughs]

What do you think about some of the new characters introduced? Are they capable of being good?

Most of the new DLC characters are actually pretty weak, in my opinion.

Would these characters do well if they were placed in Street Fighter® IV?

I’m not to sure, but if they are weak in V, they would probably be weak in IV.

No pressure, but make a prediction for the next EVO Champion?

It would be nice if I could win, of course. [laughs] It’s different every year, however based on the current momentum, it will most likely be someone from Japan or the US.