CS Betting Scandal
ESIC has suspended Maksym “THRONE” Semenov, Artur “DarkS1DE” Kravchenko, and Danylo “nat1ve” Bakin from ESIC events for two years. ESIC took this action after investigating teams Akuma, Project X, and Majesty. The investigations confirmed that these players breached the ESIC Anti-Corruption Code multiple times and revealed evidence of matchfixing and unusual betting on matches involving them.
Overview of the Case
Betting evidence and confidential information led to investigations into these players, exposing their involvement in match-fixing activities. Such actions violate the ESIC Code of Conduct and Anti-Corruption Code. Specifically:
- Dmytro “SENSEi” Shvorak attempted to fix matches during several LAN events with Team Project X.
- Maksym “THRONE” Semenov participated in matchfixing during a Bulgarian LAN event with Team Majesty between August and December 2020.
- Artur “DarkS1DE” Kravchenko also participated in matchfixing during a Bulgarian LAN event with Team Majesty.
- Danylo “nat1ve” Bakin engaged in matchfixing during the same Bulgarian LAN event with Team Majesty.
These players are collectively referred to as the “Sanctioned Participants”.
Investigation and Matchfixing Charges
ESIC undertook a comprehensive investigation, analyzing betting evidence from Anti-Corruption Supporters, studying matches, corroborating witness statements, and evaluating betting patterns. Based on these findings, each player faced charges under the ESIC’s Anti-Corruption Code, particularly concerning corruption and betting activities.
After reviewing the evidence and allegations, the Sanctioned Participants faced charges for breaching ESIC’s Anti-Corruption Code, specifically:
2.1 Corruption:Format
2.1.1 Attempting to fix, influence improperly, or participating in any effort to manipulate the result, progress, conduct, or any aspect of any Match.
Section 3.1 (Anti-Corruption Code):
Participants must avoid activities like betting or gambling that could create a conflict of interest.
2.4.5 Activities that tarnish the reputation of Esport, the Game, Event, ESIC, or a Member are to be avoided, especially when the alleged incident isn’t adequately covered by the above offenses.
The Sanctioned Participants received a Notice of Charge on 24 October 2023 but chose not to respond.
Matchfixing Sanction Duration
In line with the ESIC Anti-Corruption Code, ESIC issued a Rejection Order against each player, effective from 24 October 2023 to 24 October 2025. During this period, they are ineligible to participate in any ESIC member events and must comply with all relevant ESIC Anti-Corruption Code provisions.
About ESIC
ESIC acts as the guardian of esports integrity, working to disrupt, prevent, investigate, and prosecute all forms of cheating and malpractice in esports, including matchfixing.
Former Project X and MAJESTY owner gets lifetime ESIC ban for match-fixing and facilitating cheatingPublic Statement on Disciplinary Action Against Participants Dmytro “SENSEi” Shvorak, Maksym “THRONE” Semenov, Artur “DarkS1DE” Kravchenko, and Danylo “nat1ve” Bakin
