October 6, 2025

Get ready for a chess showdown like never before! In a dazzling display of speed and skill, world No. 2 Hikaru Nakamura of the USA defeated reigning world champion D Gukesh from India in a thrilling bullet chess match early Sunday morning in India. This gripping game was part of The Checkmate: USA vs India exhibition, held at the Arlington Esports Stadium in Texas, where the usual quiet of chess was replaced by loud cheers, boos, and shouts – turning it into a rocking spectator sport! The moment that stole the show was Nakamura’s electrifying final move. He sealed the USA's perfect 5-0 victory with a brilliant checkmate! Then, like a true showman, Nakamura tossed a chess piece into the cheering crowd, celebrating with flamboyant style. Meanwhile, Gukesh, fighting fiercely all along, watched as the American star took the spotlight. The matches before the bullet battle were intense too. Gukesh managed some tough draws in the 10-minute and 5-minute rapid games, playing well with the black pieces. But when it came to the lightning-fast 1-minute bullet format — with only a single second added per move — Nakamura’s skill shone brightest. The game-ending move was a classic: Nakamura’s queen delivered checkmate on d8 while his bishop on b2 trapped Gukesh’s king on f8. Drama, action, and a perfect finish! The American team had all white pieces in these games, and the Indian players will get their turn with white in a reverse fixture soon in India. So, who is this star Hikaru Nakamura? Born on December 9, 1987, Nakamura is a legendary American chess grandmaster, famous for his bold and creative play. He became a grandmaster at just 15 — the youngest American ever at that time! Nakamura is a five-time U.S. Champion and has played in seven Chess Olympiads, winning team gold and two bronze medals. He was also runner-up in the 2024 Candidates Tournament. But that’s not all — outside the board, Nakamura is a huge online sensation! He streams chess on Twitch, Kick, and YouTube, paving the way for millions of new chess fans worldwide with his fun and fiery style. This show of chess power by Nakamura and the spirited challenge from Gukesh proves that chess is not just a game of silence—it’s a thrilling battle of minds and excitement!

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Tags: Hikaru nakamura, D gukesh, Bullet chess, Usa vs india, Chess exhibition, The checkmate,