TL;DR
- Gaimin Gladiators withdrew from TI14 due to unresolved player-organization conflicts
- Players reportedly refused to represent the organization after coach Cy- removal
- OG emerges as likely replacement due to visa advantages and qualifier position
- GG faces multiple accusations including contract disputes and crypto scam allegations
- The situation highlights critical issues in esports organization management
What happened inside Gaimin Gladiators?
Update, August 24: Multiple developments have emerged following our initial report. Here’s a comprehensive summary with detailed event links:
- Quinn countered the organization’s claims, stating they were “willing and able” to compete under GG banner.
- Solo revealed “internal information,” indicating the conflict began with Cy-‘s removal.
- Former GG players shared their perspectives (dyrachyo, Seleri)
- GG co-owner Nick Cuccovillo responded to Quinn, presenting his alternative narrative.
“Future players should see this as a massive red flag.” BlitZ, Fly, Cr1t and other reaction to GG’s exit from TI14
Original statement: GG president and co-founder Nick Cuccovillo acknowledged ongoing tensions between management and the Dota 2 squad.
I want to share that Gaimin Gladiators won’t be competing at TI this year. Some internal matters between the players and the organization made it impossible for us to move forward with a roster. For now, I can’t go into more detail as there are legal considerations involved, but I’ll share more when I’m able to.
Withdrawing from TI represents a catastrophic financial decision. Even with disagreements, abandoning the event eliminates all potential revenue streams. Both players and organization lose prize pool shares and supporter bundle income.
This situation typically indicates an ultimatum was issued. GG’s former manager Oleg “Jak2oO” Porotnikov provided insights into the internal dynamics, accusing management of attempting to pressure players through coach Aske “Cy-” Larsen. When this strategy failed, the coach was reportedly terminated. Additional details are available through the linked report.
Ex-Gaimin Gladiators manager speculates about withdrawal from TI14, accuses org of nepotism
Si.com’s investigative report reveals players explicitly refused to represent the organization further. In response, GG allegedly threatened legal action against independent participation. The roster has reportedly secured legal counsel to navigate this dispute.
Who will replace Gaimin Gladiators at TI14
Tournament organizers confirmed they’re actively seeking a replacement team. Industry analysts widely expect OG to receive the invitation, having placed third in Western European qualifiers behind GG.
Visa processing becomes critical in emergency replacements. OG requires documentation only for support player daze. Should complications arise, alternatives include bringing Ceb out of retirement or utilizing Ari, who remains under contract.
Dyrachyo on Quinn in TI12 grand final: “I felt like my midlaner was a complete noob”
Other accusations against Gaimin Gladiators
Following the controversial withdrawal, CS2 coach and analyst Aleksandar “kassad” Trifunovich publicly labeled GG a “scam organization” on X. He reached out to former CS team players, promising further revelations.
CS2 players first exposed issues in March 2025, threatening legal action against Gaimin Gladiators. Similar to Jak2oO’s allegations, the organization allegedly exploited contract clauses requiring weekly video content. Contracts were terminated without proper warnings. CS2 player roeJ characterized this as a deliberate strategy to avoid salary and bonus payments.
A significant controversy erupted after star carry Anton “dyrachyo” Shkredov’s departure. Co-founder Joseph “Heklr” Turner accused the player of excessive drinking, preferring Russian teammates, and neglecting replay analysis. Multiple sources, including former manager Jak2oO, defended dyrachyo, refuting all claims. Heklr subsequently deleted his account and later departed the organization.
Crypto and NFT scam accusations
GG maintains connections to Gaimin.io, a platform enabling cryptocurrency mining through idle PC resources. Their token launched in 2024 but collapsed to near-zero value within months. Numerous X accounts accused the platform of executing a “rug pull,” alleging executives dumped tokens, causing investor losses. While these allegations could impact the sponsored esports organization, specific details remain unclear.
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Action Checklist
1. Verify organization reputation before signing contracts 2. Review all contract clauses carefully, especially content requirements 3. Establish clear communication channels with management 4. Document all interactions and agreements 5. Seek legal counsel when disputes arise 6. Research organization's financial stability and sponsor relationships 7. Connect with former players for insider perspectives 8. Plan exit strategies before contract expiration
No reproduction without permission：SeeYouSoon Game Club » Alleged contract abuse, nepotism, crypto scam connection. What happened to Gaimin Gladiators and why they exit The International 2025? Complete breakdown of Gaimin Gladiators' TI14 withdrawal and organizational controversies