After playing just one match with Cloud9, Demon1 is set to join ENVY one day before their elimination match against EG.
The VALORANT scene has been a rollercoaster in recent weeks. Maximilian “Demon1” Mazanov initially returned to Tier 1 with Cloud9, stepping in as a substitute for Francis “OXY” Hoang, but after just one match, he has already moved to ENVY.
While Demon1 finds himself back in the starting spotlight, ENVY's Hunter "inspire" Schline heads to the bench following ongoing internal conflicts, culminating in his replacement just one day before the team’s elimination match at the VCT Americas 2026: Kickoff event.
Demon1 leaves Cloud9 and joins ENVY
Demon1 had been teasing his departure from Cloud9 on X throughout the day. The decision came naturally, as he was only standing in for OXY, who has since returned to the active roster.
On Feb. 6, ENVY officially announced the signing of Demon1. However, the timing of the transfer raised some eyebrows, as ENVY is set to compete in the VCT Americas Kickoff Lower Bracket the very next day, a match that could mark the end of their run if they fall to Evil Geniuses.
At the same time as the announcement, ENVY also revealed that inspire would be a free agent, and he can now explore other options in the market. While no official reason has been provided for the decision, fans speculate that it may be linked to inspire’s reported internal conflicts with the team.
ENVY reaches Tier 1 incomplete
It is also important to provide some context on ENVY’s current situation in Tier 1. While the team achieved an incredible milestone by winning Ascension and earning promotion to the main league, they were unable to play with their initial roster.
Three of the five players were minors, which means they can't compete in the VCT Americas Tier 1 until they are 18 years old. That rule forced the team to change the roster as soon as they won Ascension. That is why they signed two new players to the roster: Daniel "Rossy" Abedrabbo from Leviátan and Angelo "keznit" Mori from KRÜ.
Does ENVY have what it takes to battle through the Lower Bracket and reach their first international event? We have to wait and see!
