Malzahar vs Aatrox TOP Matchup Guide | LaneStomp

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Malzahar vs Aatrox

Updated Jun 4, 2026

Overview

Malzahar should focus on controlling the wave and maintaining lane pressure to deny Aatrox the extended trades he wants.
This is a control vs snowball matchup where Malzahar must avoid giving Aatrox space to use his sustain and (R) resets effectively.

Trading pattern

Push with (E) and Voidlings, then threaten silence (Q) or (R) suppression when Aatrox steps forward to trade.
Punish missed (Q) casts and (E) reposition windows by stepping forward for short trades.
Avoid fighting extended trades when Aatrox has (R) active; instead, use your ultimate to pick or disengage decisively.

Danger windows

Beware of (Q) sweet spot chains combined with (E) repositioning for knockups.
Respect the threat of (W) pull zones that can trap you and force you into his (Q) range.
Exercise caution when Aatrox has (R) active, as his healing amplification and resets make close fights dangerous.

Early game

Use (E) and Voidlings to push early waves and keep Aatrox under tower, limiting his ability to land (Q) sweet spots.
Avoid extended trades before level 6 as Aatrox's sustain and (Q) knockups can punish you.
Track (Q) cooldowns to create safer windows for applying pressure or threatening with (Q) silence.

Power spikes

At level 6, use (R) for verified all-ins or picks; do not force it blindly.
After your first mana/AP item, pressure waves and trades more confidently while respecting Aatrox's ability to punish missed spells.
Respect Aatrox's level 6 (R) window where he gains healing and reset potential; avoid extended fights during this time.

Win conditions

Maintain constant wave pressure with (E) and Voidlings to deny Aatrox safe trades and scaling.
Use your (R) suppression to pick Aatrox when he overextends or after he wastes key cooldowns.
Control the lane tempo to prevent Aatrox from using his sustain and (R) effectively, forcing him into unfavorable fights or recalls.