by Max “Demon1” Mazanov, the 2023 VALORANT World Champion and MVP, has officially been released by NRG Esports, opening up what is expected to be a competitive sweepstakes for the star player.
Despite an incredible run with Evil Geniuses in 2023, where he helped the underdog team to a world championship, 2024 was a far cry from his past glory.
Demon1’s move to NRG Esports, after escaping “contract hell” with Evil Geniuses, initially looked promising.
NRG had high hopes for their revamped roster, featuring not only Demon1 but also his former EG teammate Ethan “Ethan” Cole Arnold.
However, NRG’s season turned into a disappointment.
They failed to qualify for the Americas playoffs in the first VALORANT Champions Tour (VCT) split, and in a bid to change course, Demon1 was benched mid-season.
Despite this shakeup, NRG missed the playoffs again and did not qualify for any international LANs in 2024.
In their announcement on social media, NRG acknowledged Demon1’s immense talent, stating, “He’s too good to keep on the bench, so we’re giving him the chance to shine elsewhere,” while Demon1 responded with a simple “LFT” (Looking for Team).
LFT
— Demon1 (@Demon1___) October 9, 2024
Although the team’s performance was underwhelming, the decision to release such a skilled player still came as a surprise, particularly given the investment NRG made in securing him and Ethan—reportedly with personal contributions from former coach Chet “Chet” Singh towards their buyouts.
NRG’s roster, once brimming with star talent, is now reduced to just Ethan, Pujan “FNS” Mehta, and streamer Sam “s0m” Oh.
Meanwhile, Demon1 has already been linked to other teams, including a potential move to Leviatán, who are rebuilding after key departures.
With his skillset, it’s expected that teams from the EMEA or Pacific regions will be interested in acquiring him.
As NRG looks to the future, rumours point to the team focusing on younger talent, with players like Andrew “Verno” Maust being connected to the roster for 2025.
FNS is also expected to remain with the team for his final year of professional play, offering a steady hand as NRG rebuilds after a disastrous 2024 season.
He's too good to keep on the bench, so we're giving him the chance to shine elsewhere.
Thank you for everything @Demon1___ pic.twitter.com/FfOe77YK7d
— NRG (@NRGgg) October 9, 2024
