Few moments in League of Legends are as thrilling as a Baron steal. The Baron Nashor buff can flip games, turn underdogs into victors, and create legendary highlights in competitive play. From impossible smite timings to insane skill-shot finishes, the best Baron steals in competitive LoL are etched in the memory of every fan.
This article revisits the most iconic Baron steals from international tournaments, regional leagues, and Worlds, explaining what made them unforgettable and why they still get replayed today.
Why Baron Steals Matter in Pro Play
Baron Nashor provides one of the strongest buffs in the game, giving:
- Empowered Minions for siege pressure.
- Bonus AD and AP for team damage.
- Regeneration for survival during sieges.
In pro play, Baron is often the turning point of a match. A single steal can:
- Reverse a losing game.
- Secure victory for an underdog team.
- Change the outcome of entire series at Worlds or MSI.
Legendary Baron Steals in Competitive LoL
1. Xmithie vs SK Telecom – MSI 2015
- The Play: Fnatic and SKT fought over Baron when Xmithie’s smite timing was flawless, stealing Baron from under Faker’s team.
- Why It’s Iconic: Proved that even against SKT, one clutch moment could turn the game.
2. Bengi’s Smite Steal – Worlds 2013
- The Play: SKT’s jungler Bengi stole Baron against Najin White Shield with perfect smite.
- Why It’s Iconic: Cemented SKT’s reputation as a clutch team in early Worlds history.
3. Peanut’s Baron Smite – LCK 2017
- The Play: Peanut (SKT) stole Baron with perfect smite mechanics against KT Rolster.
- Why It’s Iconic: A pivotal moment in the legendary “Telecom Wars.”
4. Karsa vs RNG – MSI 2018
- The Play: Karsa denied RNG’s Baron attempt with an incredible steal.
- Why It’s Iconic: Momentum-shifting moment that kept his team alive in the series.
5. Jankos’ Baron Steal – Worlds 2019
- The Play: Jankos (G2 Esports) snatched Baron against SKT in semis.
- Why It’s Iconic: One of the defining moments of G2’s run to the Worlds finals.
6. Clid vs IG – Worlds 2019
- The Play: Clid secured Baron steal in a nail-biting quarterfinal series.
- Why It’s Iconic: Showed nerves of steel under Worlds pressure.
7. Blaber’s Baron Steal – MSI 2021
- The Play: Cloud9’s Blaber stole Baron from Damwon Kia.
- Why It’s Iconic: A moment of hope for NA fans against one of the best teams in the world.
8. Oner’s Baron Play – Worlds 2022
- The Play: Oner’s precision secured a Baron steal against Gen.G.
- Why It’s Iconic: Highlighted T1’s ability to thrive under immense pressure.
9. Inspired’s Game-Changer – LEC 2020
- The Play: Rogue’s Inspired pulled off a Baron steal against G2.
- Why It’s Iconic: Marked Rogue’s rise as a competitive powerhouse in Europe.
10. Kanavi’s Smite Mastery – LPL 2023
- The Play: Kanavi (JDG) showcased mechanical perfection with a late-game Baron steal.
- Why It’s Iconic: A textbook example of why he’s considered one of the best junglers in the world.
What Makes a Great Baron Steal?
- Timing: Perfect smite precision against thousands of damage per second.
- Mechanics: Using skill-shots or abilities (like Ezreal’s ultimate) to secure kills.
- Risk Factor: Diving alone into five enemies to contest.
- Game Impact: Whether the steal decided the game or series outcome.
Lessons Players Can Learn
- Track Enemy Smite Cooldowns: Knowing when the enemy jungler can’t smite is crucial.
- Use Abilities with Smite: Combine burst spells with smite for maximum chance.
- Control Vision: Stealing is easier when the enemy lacks proper vision.
- Confidence Matters: Sometimes the best play is going all-in on a 50/50.
Final Thoughts
The best Baron steals in competitive LoL aren’t just flashy plays—they’re turning points in esports history. From Bengi’s legendary smite to Jankos’ clutch Worlds steal, these moments define tournaments and inspire fans worldwide.
For pros, Baron steals are a testament to mechanical skill and mental composure. For fans, they’re unforgettable highlights that make League of Legends one of the most exciting esports in the world.
