What Is Happening in NA Valorant Tier 2 Ecosystem? Cheating Scandal Explained
A cheating and match-fixing scandal is shaking up North America’s Valorant Tier 2 scene. With gambling rings and alleged Riot involvement exposed, calls for a thorough investigation are louder than ever.
The North American VALORANT tier 2 ecosystem is in chaos, and this time, it’s not about game balance or roster swaps; it’s about cheating, match-fixing, and the alleged involvement of gambling rings. Former pro and current Shopify Rebellion manager Sean ‘sgares’ Gares dropped a bombshell this week, calling the Tier 2 scene “an underground gambling ring” and claiming that some Riot Games officials might be entangled in the mess.
Match-Fixing, Gambling Rings, and Riot's Silence—North America's Tier 2 Valorant Scene Under Fire
According to Sean ‘sgares’ Gares, former caster and Manager of Shopify Rebellion, players are throwing matches deliberately in coordination with gambling entities, earning tens of thousands of dollars monthly by fixing outcomes. The tier 2 scene, which was supposed to be a stepping stone for upcoming talent, has allegedly become a breeding ground for manipulation and corruption. Gares explained that a struggling player can pull in $20,000–$30,000 a month by rigging results, money that far exceeds what most of them make legitimately in that ecosystem.
— Sean Gares (@seangares) May 16, 2025
This scandal didn’t just explode out of nowhere. Gares admitted he had been aware of the situation for a while but refrained from speaking publicly due to internal investigations already underway. However, when another figure in the scene, streamer MrFunHaver, addressed the topic on his livestream, Gares felt compelled to step forward with everything he knew, sparking widespread concern and anger throughout the competitive community.
The implications go beyond just a few dishonest players. Gares hinted that individuals tied to Riot Games may be involved, which, if true, would deeply undermine the developer’s credibility and commitment to fair play. The thought that those meant to uphold the rules might be part of the problem is precisely what makes this scandal so damaging.
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Riot Needs to Step Up—Before It’s Too Late
For Riot Games, this isn’t just another PR issue. It’s a turning point. The developer must act fast and decisively, not only to preserve the Tier 2 ecosystem but to uphold the integrity of VALORANT as an esports. A deep, transparent investigation is urgently needed. Without it, trust in the system erodes from fans, players, and potential sponsors alike. Competitive scenes are built on legitimacy, and right now, North America’s Tier 2 Valorant has never looked more fragile.
