The tier-2 and tier-3 tournament scene in CS2 has found itself at the center of a growing controversy — professional players and coaches are voicing serious concerns about the systemic use of cheats and match-fixing. After an emotional post by ENCE’s Viktor “sdy” Orudzhev, the community began sharing evidence and accusations that raise questions about the integrity of certain teams and competitions.
Background
The scandal involving potential cheating on the tier-2/3 Counter-Strike 2 scene gained momentum after a statement from Ukrainian ENCE player Viktor “sdy” Orudzhev. Following a loss to team ROSY at The Proving Grounds Season 2, he wrote on Twitter:
“Playing against cheaters every second game is my favourite part of pro cs on tier2-3 right now. Very good to get your mental to unbreakable levels, would recommend 10/10.”
Playing against cheaters every second game is my favourite part of pro cs on tier2-3 right now. Very good to get your mental to unbreakable levels, would recommend 10/10. https://t.co/kBwDbRReGP
— 🇺🇦 Viktor Orudzhev 🇺🇦 (@somedieyoungCS) July 10, 2025
sdy’s words sparked a wave of discussion, particularly after a post by user deten, who highlighted violations in webcam recording regulations at the tournament. Specifically, the players from team Senza (formerly ROSY) did not have full screen visibility on their webcams, and one webcam did not show the screen at all — in direct violation of CCT’s official rules.
“Only 4 cameras instead of 5. None show the full monitor. One doesn’t show the screen at all.”
Reactions from Prominent Figures
Despite the tournaments not being among the top-tier events, the situation caught the attention of well-known figures in the CS scene.
ENCE analyst Fisic0 claimed that some teams follow a fixed pattern: they play the first map without cheats and lose badly to increase betting odds. Then they allegedly turn on cheats, win the second and third maps, and profit.
“Strat is always the same: play without cheats and lose badly the first map, so the odds will increase. After, they bet on themselves, blatantly cheat and win the 2nd and 3rd map.”
Strat is always the same: play without cheats and lose badly the first map, so the odds will increase. After, they bet on themselves, blatantly cheat and win the 2nd and 3rd map. @valvesoftware @CounterStrike @ESIC_Official WAKE UP pic.twitter.com/uyPLONlf8x
— Fisic0 (@cl_fisico) July 28, 2025
The coach of GamerLegion also spoke out, emphasizing that players with suspicious behavior, poor aim, and illogical decisions still managed to win rounds due to “incredible reads” of their opponents. He warned that this undermines trust in the scene, destroys promising rosters, and demotivates honest players.
“This can’t keep happening. Genuine rosters die when these losses happen. We have to act. Tier-2 CS should produce talent, not destroy it through shady practices.”
He also highlighted the absence of player unions and ESIC involvement, which leaves professionals to face the issue alone.
Nobody cares outside of t1 CS unfortunately, but being someone who played so much t2 CS and got fucked over multiple times I feel like I have to speak out
Some of these clips against @ENCE are disgusting. Players flanking instantly in places whilst their crosshairs are…
— ash (@ashhhcs) July 12, 2025
Reactions from Talent
The situation sparked a response from the wider community. Commentator HPY hinted:
“I might have to act.”
Iberial Soul player Alejandro “mopoz” Cano called for player identification at tournaments:
“We as players should provide ID to participate. That would make it harder to cheat under new nicknames.”
He also suggested financial penalties for cheaters and match-fixers, although he acknowledged that such actions would require government support — “and they don’t give a fu**k.”
veevepro founder Gustavo Aroso added:
“Teams must boycott tournaments where these known cheaters are playing. That will force TOs to act.”
Shadow Over the Tournament
As of now, the tournament organizer responsible for The Proving Grounds Season 2 has not issued any official comment on the matter. This leaves open questions about enforcement of rules, quality of oversight, and the next steps if violations are confirmed. Participants in the scene are hoping for a transparent response from the organizers and stronger security measures to preserve trust in the lower-tier tournaments and ensure fair competition.
