Axe + Grimstroke

Why this works

Charging up Ink Swell on an initiating Axe makes his life incredibly easy. As Axe blinks in to use Berserker's Call, the Ink Swell explodes, adding a stun and burst damage right on top of the taunt. This extended lockdown prevents enemies from using items like a Force Staff to escape the Call, securing kills that Axe might otherwise miss. Grimstroke can cast this from a safe distance, enabling Axe's initiation without exposing himself. The combination turns a standard catch into a nearly guaranteed kill on multiple heroes.

This pairing comes online early and only gets stronger. In lane, Grimstroke's slows and damage from Stroke of Fate help Axe secure spins and control the wave. Once Axe gets his Blink Dagger, the Ink Swell combo becomes the main way their team starts fights. Later on, Grimstroke’s Soulbind creates a nightmare scenario for the enemy team: if one of the bound heroes gets low, Axe's Culling Blade can kill both of them instantly. The constant threat of this two-hero initiation forces opponents to play separated and reactive.