Match-fixing scandal rocks MDL PH as Twisted Minds Bear players receive two-year bans

The Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Development League (MDL) Philippines has been hit with controversy after it emerged that a participating team was alleged to have engaged in match-fixing.

On Monday, September 1, MDL authorities handed two-year bans to five players from the Twisted Minds Bear team for their role in match-fixing.

In a statement, MDL Philippines confirmed that after a thorough investigation, team members Salem, RycoHod, NERPZU, Nasty Uno, and Daizo were found to have engaged in match-fixing. The suspension of all five players was effective September 1, 2025, barring them from competing in any Moonton-sponsored MLBB tournaments, including the MDL and MPL.

BAN NA SA LARO

BASAHIN: Inanunsyo ng MDL Philippines ang dalawang taong suspensyon laban sa mga manlalarong sina Salem, RycoGod, NERPZU, Nasty Uno, at Daizo mula sa Twisted Minds Bear (TMB) matapos mapatunayang sangkot sa isyu ng match-fixing sa Season 6 ng liga.

Kinumpirma ng… pic.twitter.com/UsYpGTBXP0

— NET25 (@NET25TV) September 3, 2025

“The investigation confirmed that the violation involved Twisted Minds Bear, while the opposing team was cleared of any involvement. In line with this, MDL Philippines has imposed sanctions on the said players as outlined in the rulebook, specifically under Section 12.3.11 on Unprofessional Behavior–Match Fixing.”

Twisted Minds Bear have struggled in the ongoing tournament, remaining winless after six games and sitting last in Group A with a 0–6 record.

“As a developmental league, MDL Philippines is committed to instilling integrity and professionalism among aspiring teams and players. Match-fixing is a serious violation of our values and standards. We will continue to enforce measures that protect fairness and sportsmanship while guiding players toward professional growth,” the statement added.

For their part, Twisted Minds confirmed that they have cut ties with Bear Esports and permanently banned the five players from representing the club in any capacity.

This is not the first time match-fixing has hit the MDL. In 2024, the league handed three-year bans to two players from RSG El Ganador and one player from TNC Z4 for the same offense.

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