Kirill Kasatskiy
Founder & Lead Organizer — Vanguard Music Championship

Kirill is the visionary behind the Vanguard Music Championship and a dedicated advocate for independent hip-hop culture. With firsthand experience of the obstacles facing emerging artists — from lack of access to education and mentorship to industry gatekeeping — he launched Vanguard as a platform, a community, and a movement.

Kirill will personally serve as a judge in both the VMC Promo Event and the Main Tournament, bringing his values of lyrical excellence, cultural authenticity, and uncompromising quality to the judging process.

“This is more than a project — it’s a movement. Thank you for being part of it.”

Knamelis Battle Rap Strategist. Cultural Voice.

Representing Toronto, Knamelis is a sharp and strategic force in the battle rap world. With over 29 battles, including major appearances on King of the Dot (KOTD), Knamelis is known for his layered writing, wit, and methodical approach.

Respected not only as a competitor but also as a judge, he brings deep knowledge of hip-hop culture and an ability to break down performances with precision. His feedback is clear, constructive, and rooted in experience.

At Vanguard, Knamelis helps elevate the judging standard by combining authentic cultural perspective with a commitment to fair evaluation. He’s here to help the next generation sharpen their craft — and to ensure no quality track goes unnoticed.

“Knamelis doesn't just judge — he listens, understands, and respects the craft.”

Ness Lee Legendary Battle Rapper & Recording Artist

Ness Lee joins the Vanguard Music Championship as a top-tier judge, bringing with him a legacy of lyrical mastery and creative excellence. A revered figure in the global battle rap scene, Ness is known for his intricate wordplay, sharp wit, and dynamic stage presence. With over 6.7 million views on his battles, he has captivated audiences worldwide and earned respect across the hip-hop industry.

Beyond battle rap, Ness is an accomplished music artist whose tracks reflect his depth as a storyteller and his versatility as a performer. He has shared the stage with some of the most prominent names in the culture — including at major events backed by figures like Drake — and remains one of the most insightful voices in lyrical music.

At Vanguard, Ness brings his elite understanding of performance, lyricism, and crowd control to the judging table. His presence on the panel sets a new standard for excellence, ensuring participants receive thoughtful, expert-level feedback. We are proud to welcome Ness Lee as part of the Vanguard movement.

“With Ness on board, Vanguard further solidifies its role as a premier arena for the next generation of elite talent.”

Real Deal Champion. Educator. Lyricist.

Real Deal is a true legend in the battle rap world — a champion whose legacy spans decades. With multiple titles, including KOTD World Champion, he’s known for his lyrical precision, storytelling ability, and unmatched experience in high-pressure environments.

Beyond the ring, Real Deal is a respected artist and educator. His thoughtful writing, versatile flow, and dedication to the culture have made him a staple in both competitive and musical arenas.

As a judge, he brings a unique blend of technical insight and mentorship. Real Deal doesn’t just hear bars — he understands structure, purpose, and delivery. His presence on the Vanguard judging panel ensures competitors will be evaluated by someone who’s been to the top — and knows what it takes to get there.

“Whether you’re seasoned or starting out, Real Deal will push you to bring your best.”