The unscripted rise of JC ‘Naisou’ Rezabek

JC “Naisou” Rezabek’s journey into the world of esports didn’t begin with a mic or a gaming chair. It began in a quiet, structured classroom, where he worked one-on-one with children and young adults with autism and learning disabilities.

JC “Naisou” Rezabek stands out in esports — not just for his voice, but for his story.

I’ve known JC since 2009, back when we were both younger, and it’s both moving and inspiring to see how his path—while seemingly unconventional—has led him to a place where he shines so clearly.

JC proudly represents the Philippines on a global stage and sees it as a privilege and a responsibility.

As a special education (SPED) teacher in the Philippines, JC’s daily life was one of nuance and compassion. He would pore over medical histories, integrate input from behavioral and speech therapists, and craft individualized education plans. His youngest students were just three years old; his oldest, over 21.

Apart from being a professional Esports broadcaster, JC is also a special education (SPED) teacher.

But in the quiet in-betweens—after the school day ended and the gym sessions were done—he began dabbling in streaming games online.

“There wasn’t much of a bridge,” he said honestly about the shift from education to esports. “The pandemic hit, the place I worked at closed, and SPED isn’t something that easily transitions to online teaching. So I decided to go full force into what was hot—streaming.”

Streaming eventually opened a door JC hadn’t anticipated: casting. He had always loved gaming, from his early years in Japan to competing in Counter-Strike and discovering World of Warcraft and League of Legends. One of his TikTok clips—where he commentated over his own gameplay—got the attention of an industry friend who encouraged him to audition for a real casting gig.

“I look back at that audition and cringe,” he laughed, “but they took a chance on me.” That leap of faith landed him on the professional stage with MPL Philippines, and later, at M6—the international grand finals event that had been a long-term goal. “It took me three years to get there,” he said. “And it felt so rewarding.”

But behind the bright lights and roaring fans, JC admits, is a craft few outsiders understand. “People think we just show up and cast. But it’s a whole world: history, stats, narratives, knowing your co-casters, listening actively while being live. It’s more than talking—it’s storytelling, pressure, emotion, and precision.”

At its core, he believes esports is far more than “just video games.”

“It’s a celebration of digital excellence,” he explained. “It fuses technology, media, and human performance. Gamers become athletes. Fans become communities. It’s a cultural movement.”

And casting? That’s a responsibility he takes seriously. “A great caster isn’t just knowledgeable. They’re self-assured. They’re storytellers. They understand the ecosystem, the stakes, the emotion. And most importantly, they’re great listeners.”

His versatility shines in voice-over work too—from audiobooks and YouTube channels to meditation apps. And while his public persona reflects confidence, style, and charisma, JC shares he’s an introvert at heart. “After events, I need my downtime. Alone time helps me reset.”

That contrast—between the bold energy on screen and the reflective man off-cam—makes his story even more compelling. He attributes his growth to a blend of experiences: moving to the Philippines alone at 21, putting himself through college, and surviving professional failures with resilience. “Esports didn’t change me,” he said. “It refined me.”

Today, JC proudly represents the Philippines on a global stage. He sees it as a privilege and a responsibility. “People look to Filipino talents as the standard. That means something. And I love that we bring our culture into every broadcast.”

As for what’s next, his dreams are grounded. “A healthy body and mind, a job I love, and someday a partner to share it with—that’s the dream.”His advice to others? Take the risk. “My whole life has been about stepping out of my comfort zone. If it works out, you win. If it doesn’t, you learn. No risk, no story.”

In the ever-evolving world of esports, JC “Naisou” Rezabek has become a powerful presence—not just because of his voice, but because of his story. And it’s only just getting started.