for early access to the latest igaming videos!
and get the latest igaming news first!
Professional Counter‑Strike 2 player Dmytro “nifee” Tediashvili has been banned for four years, following an investigation by the Esports Integrity Commission (ESIC) into match manipulation and betting‑related corruption.
The suspension runs from 21 October 2025 until 20 October 2029, and during this period, he is barred from all ESIC‑member events in any capacity, including as a player, coach, analyst, or team staff.
ESIC partnered with Runestone
The case came from ESL Pro League Season 22, where unusual in‑game incidents and suspicious betting activity raised red flags. ESIC, working with Runestone, spotted repeated Molotov/incendiary deaths during matches in October 2025.
These incidents matched spikes in betting on proposition markets, with activity traced to dormant and high‑value accounts. Gameplay reviews showed decision‑making that didn’t fit normal competitive play, including deliberate exposure to damage without purpose.
Though “nifee” first denied the charges, he later admitted to the conduct and gave information that helped the wider investigation. A five‑year ban was first considered, but reduced to four years after his eventual admission and cooperation.
The sanction bars him from competing, coaching, or taking any official role until October 2029 for violations of its Anti-Corruption Code.
“Match manipulation and betting-related corruption represent some of the most serious threats to esports. Even manipulation of seemingly minor in-game events (such as proposition markets) undermines trust in competition and creates broader integrity risks. ESIC would like to thank Runestone for their cooperation during this investigation,” the commission stated, concluding the Wednesday announcement.
