North American esports organisation Cloud9 has signed Maximilian ‘Demon1‘ Mazanov as a substitute for its VALORANT roster.
Demon1 joins the organisation after Francis ‘OXY‘ Hoang returned home following the recent passing of his mother.
Announced on January 22nd, 2026, Demon1 will compete for Cloud9 during the second week of VCT Americas Kickoff, where the organisation faces off against Leviatan in its first mid bracket match taking place on January 25th.
Throughout his four-year playing career, Demon1 has cemented his place as one of the region’s most recognisable. In 2023, he won VALORANT Champions under the Evil Geniuses banner. Moreover, at VALORANT Champions 2025, the player joined Dragon Ranger Gaming, securing a top-16 finish.
In December 2025, he revealed that he would consider retiring from VALORANT esports if he didn’t find a permanent place on a roster for 2026.
Cloud9 is the fifth organisation Demon1 has joined during his career. Armed with a wealth of experience in high-profile tournaments, the player has an opportunity to reestablish his name among the American scene with a strong showing as Cloud9’s substitute.
Cloud9 VALORANT In 2026
Cloud9’s VALORANT season began on the front foot thanks to an MVP-worthy performance from OXY in a comfortable 2-0 sweep over LOUD in its opening Kickoff match. Defeat to NRG in the upper bracket quarter-final saw the team drop into the mid bracket.
For 2026, Riot Games introduced a triple-elimination format for VCT Kickoff events, giving teams an additional chance to remain in the tournament after falling from the upper bracket.
Demon1 is a strong substitute for Cloud9 to sign, as it looks to continue its run through the mid bracket and attempts to secure one of three qualification spots for VALORANT Masters Santiago.
Esports Insider would also like to extend its condolences to OXY, his family, and friends during this difficult time.
