Gaimin Gladiators’ TI 2025 Exit Sparks Outrage from Champion Coach Aui_2000

Kurtis “Aui_2000” Ling didn’t hold back. Just days after coaching Team Falcons to victory at The International 2025, the veteran coach took to social media to demand answers from Gaimin Gladiators over their abrupt withdrawal from the tournament.

Aui, who now holds three TI titles—one as a player with Evil Geniuses in 2015, and two as a coach with Tundra Esports (2022) and Falcons (2025)—said he was “deeply disturbed” by the situation. He compared it to his own experience being removed from EG shortly after winning TI5, but said this was worse.

“I have never seen something on this level where the org is stopping players from going to TI,” he wrote.

Gaimin Gladiators Pulled Out Weeks Before TI Began

On August 23, Valve confirmed that Gaimin Gladiators had officially withdrawn from The International. The announcement came as a shock—GG had been one of the most consistent teams in the Dota 2 scene over the past two years.

According to the organization, the players had requested to terminate their contracts and compete independently. GG claimed that due to Valve’s roster lock rules, they couldn’t field a valid lineup and had no choice but to pull out.

But that version of events didn’t sit right with fans—or with the players themselves.

Quinn Disputes GG’s Statement

GG’s midlaner Quinn Callahan responded publicly, saying the org’s statement was misleading. He claimed the players had “explicitly communicated in writing” that they were ready to compete under the GG banner, and that the decision to withdraw was made unilaterally by management.

The contradiction sparked outrage across the community. Coaches, analysts, and players weighed in, with many calling for transparency and accountability.

Team Liquid coach Blitz called it “the weirdest thing I’ve ever seen.” Aui_2000 went further, accusing GG of organizational failure and saying the players deserved better.

Legal Tensions and Silence

GG co-founder Nick Cuccovillo later responded, saying the players hadn’t engaged with proposed settlements and that the org had acted within Valve’s rules. He cited legal constraints as the reason for the limited communication and promised a “full and transparent update” when possible.

In the meantime, the silence has only fueled speculation. Some fans believe the players were pushed out. Others think GG may have been trying to avoid financial obligations. Without clear answers, the community is left guessing.

Aui’s Words Carry Weight

Aui_2000 isn’t just another voice in the crowd. He’s one of the most respected figures in Dota 2, and his track record speaks for itself. When he calls out an organization, people listen.

His comments have reignited conversations about player rights, contract transparency, and the role of team owners in esports. TI is supposed to be the pinnacle of competition. When a top-tier team is pulled out against its will, it raises serious questions.

What Happens Next?

As of now, Gaimin Gladiators remains silent. The players have moved on, some joining other squads, others waiting for the dust to settle. Valve hasn’t issued further statements, and the community is still waiting for clarity.

For Aui_2000, the timing couldn’t be more symbolic. Just as he reached the peak of his coaching career, he’s using his platform to speak up for others. Whether GG responds or not, the message is clear: players deserve to be heard, especially when the stakes are this high.

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