The Ult was meant to block enemies' dashes and protect Azir to kite, the 3 second duration only allows the ult to be baited out which then champs like Vi can wait out until it dissipates and squash the Emperor.
5/6/7 seconds of blocking enemies from being able to fight back while in the jungle is too strong. Many fights are decided before 5 seconds.
Are now all more of a threat to Azir
With so many dmg in the game, you have to be full tank not to explode in 3 seconds, if you get focused.
Azir doesn't even need zoning power against mobile champions when he already has his own mobility.
