Returning Champion Alireza Firouzja Spearheads 2025 Bullet Chess Championship

Get ready for one of Chess.com's most intense and dramatic events! The 2025 Bullet Chess Championship (BCC) kicks off this June and will feature a $50,000 prize fund and some of the most dangerous bullet specialists in the world.

The event brings back the 16-player double-elimination bracket and countdown clock match format, where every second matters. Eight invited players will be joined by eight qualifiers who advance through Play-Ins. The eight Play-Ins will take place on June 23, while the Main Event will occur from June 25 to 28.

Returning to defend his title is GM Alireza Firouzja, who is widely regarded as one of the best bullet players in the world. Last year, Firouzja's cunning tactics and jaw-dropping speed took him to the top in 2024 as he defeated GM Hikaru Nakamura twice to win the title. He now returns to attempt his first back-to-back BCC victory, a feat only Nakamura has achieved so far in the history of the event.

Among the other players invited alongside Firouzja is GM Arjun Erigaisi. With his uncompromising play style, Arjun has enjoyed a meteoric rise and climbed his way to the world number-four ranking. With momentum on his side, this may be the year Arjun wins his first BCC title.

Also joining the field is fan-favorite and bullet player extraordinaire GM Daniel Naroditsky. Famous for his creative and tricky play, Naroditsky always brings fire to the board, especially in faster time controls. With his legion of fans to cheer him on, he's surely among the favorites to win it all.

Another confirmed player is speed phenom GM Nihal Sarin. The Indian star is no stranger to the top of the Chess.com blitz and bullet leaderboards. His resourceful play and quick tactical blows make him especially dangerous in bullet. 

Fans can enjoy all of the high-speed action of the BCC live on our Twitch and YouTube channels. Tune in to keep up with all the drama and excitement, accompanied as-always by expert commentary!

Who do you think will win this year's BCC? Let us know in the comments section below.