Pugna + Rubick

Why this works

Holding a target in place for a full Life Drain channel is the main goal here. Rubick’s Telekinesis provides the perfect setup, locking an enemy down long enough for Pugna to drain them. The pair can then layer their damage, with Decrepify amplifying the magic from a stolen spell or Fade Bolt. A Nether Ward placed nearby adds pressure, punishing enemies who try to turn the gank around with their own abilities. This gives them a potent, single-target pickoff threat that can be difficult to survive without an immediate save or dispel. The combo is all about chaining abilities to delete one hero from the fight before it really begins.

The success of this duo depends heavily on coordination and enemy composition. Both Pugna and Rubick are fragile heroes with poor mobility, making them easy to kill if caught out of position. They excel at punishing a single hero but can be overwhelmed by teams that can dive the backline or present multiple threats at once. The combo also requires careful timing of Decrepify to avoid saving an enemy from your team's physical damage dealers. While their lockdown and burst potential is real, their shared weaknesses often balance out their strengths, leading to an even matchup.