Ludovic Mbock, a professional Street Fighter player, has been granted a low bond following a hearing, allowing him to return home to Maryland. The decision comes less than a month after his detention by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). A follow-up hearing is scheduled for May.
On March 13, 2026, Ludovic Mbock, known in the fighting game community (FGC) as a skilled Chun-Li player in Street Fighter, received positive news in his immigration case. Detained by ICE approximately one month earlier, Mbock appeared before a judge who granted him a low bond after a supportive turnout at the hearing.
Friends and family shared the update on Mbock's GoFundMe page, which has raised over $102,000 for his legal fees and representation. The post stated: "Ludovic has been granted a very low bond! Thank you so much for all of the supporters. We had around 20 people in the court room and over 20 more supporting online. The judge was clearly moved. Everything he said was in favor of Ludovic. We could not have done this all without you! We will update once he is back home."
The team expressed optimism for the upcoming May hearing, citing the outpouring of support from the FGC. When news of Mbock's detention broke, community members shared stories of his contributions to the scene, boosting awareness and crowdfunding efforts.
Social media reactions were swift and celebratory. One post on Bluesky read: "BREAKING: WE DID IT!!! LUDOVIC IS COMING HOME!!! The judge, clearly moved by 20 people turning up in person alongside 20 online, ruled entirely in Lud’s favor with low bond. Update to come when he is home. The team is optimistic about his hearing in May. #FREELUD"
Another user noted: "When we fight we win y'all 💪" while a third added: "Ludovic is going to come home to thousands of people posting about how he is free and I think that's beautiful #FREELUD."
Mbock is expected to return to Maryland soon, with further updates anticipated from his support team.
