CS2 Pro Erkhan “Gokushima” Bagynanov Banned for 2 Years Over Match-Fixing

Findings of the Investigation

The ESIC’s inquiry uncovered substantial evidence proving that Mr. Bagynanov engaged in activities that violated multiple sections of the ESIC Code of Conduct and Anti-Corruption Code. Specifically, his actions were found to be in violation of:

1. Anti-Corruption Code:
   • Section 2.1.1: Involvement in fixing or improperly influencing the outcome, progress, or any aspect of matches.
   • Section 2.2.1: Betting on matches, including those he participated in.
   • Section 2.2.2: Facilitating, aiding, or abetting others in committing betting-related offenses.
   • Sections 2.4.2 to 2.4.5: Failing to disclose all relevant facts about the aforementioned acts to ESIC.
2. Code of Conduct:
   • Section 2.1.5: Conduct that brings esports, the game, event, ESIC, or its members into disrepute.
   • Section 2.2.8: Match manipulation for inappropriate reasons.

ESIC’s Actions and Sanctions

As a result of these findings, ESIC has imposed a two-year ban on Erkhan “Gokushima” Bagynanov, effective from 27 March 2024 to 26 March 2026. During this period, “Gokushima” is prohibited from participating in any events hosted by ESIC member organizations. Compliance with all relevant provisions of the ESIC Anti-Corruption Code is mandatory throughout the duration of this sanction​.¹

Additional Context and Implications

Erkhan Bagynanov, who had been playing for the Russian esports organization FORZE since October 2023, was benched along with several teammates in early April 2024, just before the announcement of his ban​.² ​. The investigation revealed that Erkhan “Gokushima” Bagynanov was involved in fixing up to 80 matches and allegedly earned between USD 100,000 to USD 400,000 from these activities​. These revelations have sparked discussions about the broader issue of match-fixing within the esports community, with some insiders predicting that more players might be implicated in similar activities​.

Broader Impact on Esports Integrity

This case underscores the ongoing challenges that esports faces regarding integrity and fair play. The ESIC, established in 2015, aims to safeguard the integrity of esports by preventing, investigating, and prosecuting cheating and corruption. This case is a part of ESIC’s broader mission to protect the integrity of esports and ensure a fair competitive environment for all participants​.

Conclusion

The ban on Erkhan “Gokushima” Bagynanov serves as a significant reminder of the serious consequences of violating esports integrity codes. It highlights the ESIC’s commitment to maintaining the credibility and integrity of esports competitions. Moving forward, the esports community will need to stay vigilant and continue to support measures that promote fairness and transparency in the sport.

For more information on the ESIC and its efforts to maintain integrity in esports, you can visit their official website.

1. https://www.hltv.org/news/38751/gokushima-receives-two-year-match-fixing-ban; https://esic.gg/sanction-outcome/public-statement-on-disciplinary-action-against-participant-erkhan-gokushima-bagynanov/ ↩︎
2. https://www.vegasslotsonline.com/news/2024/04/13/russian-counter-strike-2-pro-banned-for-two-years-for-match-fixing/; https://www.dexerto.com/counter-strike-2/counter-strike-pro-banned-for-two-years-after-match-fixing-and-betting-on-games-2642342/ ↩︎