General
The Isabuhay 2026 Lineup
It’s finally out! Let’s talk about the emcees who will compete at this year’s Isabuhay Tournament.
Dante Romero
February 27, 2026
Finally, the lineup for the Isabuhay 2026 Tournament has been released. It’s a diverse list! We have returning veterans, current favorites, and first timers. Each emcee has a distinct style and if they all bring their A-game, it will certainly be another historical competition. Today, let’s take a closer look at the competitors.
Bagsik
While he’s mostly known for his ruthless personals, Bagsik’s complex rhyming ability also deserves recognition. He may have more losses than wins, but in his previous 1-on-1 bout, he showed his best form which led to his second victory. If he maintains his top form in the tournament, he will undoubtedly be a serious threat.
Kregga
Kregga possesses sharp vocabulary, powerful delivery, and vivid imagery. He has a few memorable victories under his belt, but haven’t been given enough credit. It’s safe to say he’s one of the most underrated emcees in the lineup. His most recent battle at Gubat 14 was critically-acclaimed, and we believe he will be even stronger in the 2026 tourney.
Frooz
Apart from his unique humor and hard-hitting punchlines, Frooz continues to display superb multisyllabic rhyming skills. He’s the perfect definition of well-rounded, and if he won’t stumble in the tournament, he will definitely be a problem. His ability to blend comedy with serious lines remain flawless. Experience-wise, Frooz is already a champion (2013 Dos Por Dos), so he knows how to handle the pressure!
Keelan
Keelan is one of the fastest-rising emcees in FlipTop. He made his debut in 2024, and while he may have attracted significant controversy last year, there’s no denying his impressive rap ability. His delivery is razor-sharp, and his brand of humor is unique and always effective. Keelan also has the ability to spit punchline after punchline with no filler. We’re looking at a potential dark horse here!
SlockOne
SlockOne fell short at the semis of the Isabuhay 2024 Tournament, but nothing can erase the impact of his performance at the first round and quarterfinals. This year, it looks like he’s even more serious at becoming champion. As long as he stays consistent, SlockOne has a huge chance of winning it all, thanks to his constantly evolving pen game, strong stage presence, and flawless delivery.
Poison13
His impressive victory against GL at Ahon 16 quickly made him a favorite in this tournament. Poison13 has always been one of the best technical emcees in battle rap. Apart from his solid wordplays and metaphors, he’s also very effective when it comes to angles and delivery. Every time he spits, he always gives it his all. We can’t wait to see what he has in store.
Shaboy
Shaboy is another first-timer in the tournament. Casual fans may only know him for his controversial stunt at Ahon 13, but the real ones know he has been on a roll as of late. His latest performance at Ahon 16 is considered one of the highlights of the event, and his witty humor and confident presence continue to shine. If his skillset remains intact, he will be a legit threat.
Ruffian
Mixing raw aggression with devastating punchlines and heavy metaphors, Ruffian is a serious threat in this year’s tournament. Yes, he lost his previous two matches, but him joining Isabuhay for the second time is a strong indication that he’s coming back with a vengeance. A fully prepared Ruffian with some new and innovative concepts has a huge chance of winning the championship.
Yuniko
It’s Yuniko’s second Isabuhay attempt. Recently, his pen game is much stronger and his aggressive delivery remains flawless. Aside from his clever wordplays, Yuniko can also come up with some of the most effective angles against his opponents. He may not be mentioned among the favorites to win this year, but don’t count him out! He may end up surprising us all.
Goriong Talas
This is Goriong Talas’ seventh Isabuhay run. Despite not winning the championship, some of his best performances took place in the tournament. No can deny his superb flow, intense delivery, and effective combination of humorous and heavy bars. Will the Illustrado representative finally win it this year? If he’s consistent and brings something new while maintaining his solid skillset, he might!
Manda Baliw
Manda Baliw is back for another run at the tournament. He may have lost on the first round last year, but the crowd enjoyed his material and performance. While he’s mostly known for his creative brand of comedy, he has also incorporated some serious (and equally effective) rhymes and angles to his recent matches. If he’s once again armed with a well-rounded style and his confidence stays intact, we might see him at Ahon 17 for the finals!
G-Clown
It’s G-Clown’s fifth Isabuhay Tournament. In the previous editions, we’ve witnessed the evolution of his lyricism, flow, and presence. His well-rounded style is stronger than ever and he remains one of the most effective emcees when it comes to delivery. He had a few close battles before, and if he gives his one hundred percent in this tournament, the other competitors better beware.
Sensei
Not only is this Sensei’s first time joining Isabuhay; it’s also his first big stage FlipTop experience. The pressure is definitely on, but obviously, he already knows that. In his previous bouts, we were treated to his unique and witty jokes, impactful haymakers, and impressive rhyme schemes. We may be looking at another dark horse in this contest. Don’t sleep on Sensei!
Sak Maestro
He has attracted criticism for his recent stumbles, but since he decided to participate this year in the tournament, it’s looks like he has a few tricks up his sleeve. Let’s not forget that a prepared Sak Maestro is a dangerous one. He’s still one of the most influential when it comes to the technical style, so never underestimate him. We hope to see an A-game Sak this year. It’s about time!
Harlem
Another rapper who may not be on the favorites list, but don’t count him out just yet. A fully prepared Harlem is a force to be reckoned with. He can easily break down your style with intricate rhyme schemes, impressive wordplays, and unpredictable angles. There’s also his undeniable freestyle ability and on-stage confidence. Since this is the Isabuhay Tournament, expect him to go all out.
Shehyee
Arguably the legit favorite in the lineup, the 2018 Isabuhay Champion Shehyee aims to win his second title. We all know he’s one of the most vicious emcees in FlipTop. He’s well-known for his brutal lines, but he can also come up with the cleverest jokes. As for his delivery, you should know by now that he raps his heart out every time he’s on stage. Expect him to show his top form again this year.
FlipTop also released the official bracket. See the image above! So, who do you think will be crowned the champion at Ahon 17? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section. The first-round matches will be held in April. Keep checking here at the site and the league’s Facebook page for other updates. Are you ready? Isabuhay 2026, make some noise!
