It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Abdulaziz “HAX$” Al-Yami, a beloved member of the Super Smash Bros. Melee community, on the morning of March 25, 2025.
Aziz, widely known by his gamertag “HAX$,” passed away peacefully at 7:09 AM. His departure has left a void in the hearts of family, friends, and the countless players who admired his skill, dedication, and passion for the game.
A Life Dedicated to Melee and Competition
Born and raised in New York, Aziz discovered his love for competitive gaming at a young age. He quickly became a standout figure in the Super Smash Bros. Melee scene, known for his unparalleled technical ability, lightning-fast movement, and innovative playstyle.
His contributions to the game were more than just mechanical excellence—he shaped the meta, inspired countless players, and left an indelible mark on the community.
HAX$ was widely regarded as one of the best Captain Falcon players in the world before making the transition to Fox, a shift that revolutionized how the character was played.
His emphasis on precise execution and frame-perfect techniques earned him respect as one of the most technically proficient players to ever compete. His infamous “20XX” philosophy, envisioning a future where the game would be optimized to perfection, became a meme and a serious study within the Melee community.
More Than Just a Player
Beyond the game, Aziz was known for his resilience and perseverance. He faced numerous challenges throughout his career, including injuries that affected his hands and temporarily took him away from competition. Yet, even during these setbacks, his passion for Melee never wavered.
He worked tirelessly to develop new controller modifications to help reduce strain on players’ hands, ensuring that future competitors could avoid the same physical issues he endured.
His impact extended beyond tournaments—Aziz was a mentor, a friend, and a source of inspiration for many aspiring players. Whether through his insightful posts, in-depth analysis of the game, or simply his presence at events, he left a lasting impression on everyone he met.
A Community in Mourning
News of his passing has sent shockwaves through the Smash community and beyond. Tributes have been pouring in from fellow players, content creators, and fans who were touched by his presence. Many remember his iconic tournament runs, his determination to push Melee to its limits, and his unwavering love for the game.
A GoFundMe has been organized to assist Aziz’s family with funeral expenses and to honor his memory in a way befitting his contributions to the community. Those who wish to pay their respects and support his loved ones during this difficult time can donate through the official GoFundMe page, which has been set up to ensure his legacy is preserved.
Remembering Aziz
Aziz’s influence on Super Smash Bros. Melee and esports as a whole cannot be overstated. His passion for competition, his relentless pursuit of perfection, and his dedication to the game he loved have left an everlasting impact. He was not just a competitor; he was a pioneer, an innovator, and an inspiration to all who strive for greatness in their craft.
While his presence will be deeply missed, his legacy will live on in the game he cherished, the players he inspired, and the community he helped build. Rest in peace, Aziz. Your contributions to Melee will never be forgotten.
“He LOVED Melee.”
