Paulie Aronson is both a Remote Duel, and in-person YCS Champion, a feat few can match. He’s always at the cutting edge of competition, showcasing his Dueling and Deck-building skills whenever possible. After qualifying for the 2023 World Championship in Tokyo, Japan on August 5-6th against 31 of the toughest Duelists in North America, we discuss what it means to him, his plans for the rest of the weekend at the NAWCQ now that the pressure is off, and much more.

How does it feel to be qualified for the 2023 World Championship?

It feels great! I’m super excited!

Has it had a chance to set in yet?

Yeah, it’s pretty cool. I was always more focused on performing well in the NAWCQ Main Event rather than qualifying for the World Championship. However, now that I’m going, I realize how exciting of an opportunity it is.

How do you feel about the unique Forbidden & Limited List for the event?

I love practicing for events, so I’m extremely excited to get to do it in a unique format.

Which part are you looking forward to the most?

Getting to meet the top players from all over the world, especially from Japan! I’m also excited to be traveling outside of the Americas for the first time as well.

What’s it like playing in the Main Event now, with the pressure of the World Championship qualification behind you?

I love competing and being at events in general. I’m just as motivated to win the NAWCQ as I was before this, so nothing has changed.

Are your Deck choices from the Main Event and the World Qualifying Points Playoffs different? If so, why?

I’m playing Kashtira for both actually! They’re very different, however. I spent a lot of time studying the competition for the playoffs and tried to gauge the likelihood of their choices, then tailored my Deck to that. That’s one of the most unique parts of the World Qualifying Points Playoff, is that every player is well-known, and you can study up on the competition.

What is your biggest piece of advice for an aspiring competitor, who wants to hit the pinnacle of competition like the World Championship?

Practice as much as possible! Seriously, play as much as you can. Learn as much as you can from everyone and learn as many strategies as possible. Also, when you’re deciding on a Deck for an event, make sure you play whatever you’re most comfortable and experienced with, comfort is key.

Is there anything you’d like to say before you get ready to compete in the Main Event?

I would really like to thank all my friends who have practiced with me so much and helped me to prepare for the event. I’m really looking forward to the World Championship!

Despite already being qualified, Aronson is in the zone and ready to Duel his heart out. He’s looking to capture the coveted NAWCQ Championship to add to his growing list of achievements! Good luck to him both in the Main Event and in the World Championship in Tokyo, Japan in August.