According to sources close to Sheep Esports, former NRG player Max “Demon1” Mazanov and the Argentinian VCT Organization LEVIATÁN have reached a verbal agreement to unite forces for the 2025 season. Demon1 is presumed to be replacing superstar Erick "aspas" Santos, whose future at the organization is uncertain.

Ending the slump

Joining LEVIATÁN means another shot at the title in VCT Americas and beyond for Demon1. In his debut year, Demon1 etched his name into the VALORANT history books by winning VCT Champions after placing second at Masters: Tokyo with Evil Geniuses. He skyrocketed to fame as one of the biggest names in the space — but his sophomore season left a lot to be desired.

At the start of the year, the expectations for NRG's star-studded roster were sky-high. Unable to repeat his successes of the former season, the 2024 Season was a very disappointing one. After falling to Sentinels in the semifinals of the VCT Americas Kickoff Event, the organization aimed for the title in Stage 1 of the Americas Region. This attempt failed miserably — NRG was unable to even qualify for the playoffs. Shockingly early in the season, NRG was left with no shot at the Americas title or an international event.

In an attempt to bail out their season, the North American organization made decisions fast. In May, NRG decided to bench Demon1 from the starting roster, ending the star duelist's season early.

Another shot at success

The Argentinian organization LEVIATÁN also had a year that fell short of their expectations. A Grand Finals domestic appearance as well as a top 3 finish at Champions against Team Heretics may not seem like an unsuccessful season, but the organization and its roster had higher hopes for this year. After the headline acquisition of aspas, they aimed to win every tournament they entered.

Despite an impressive 2024 season, LEV was left unsatisfied.

Now, with Demon1 joining the team, the organization is setting its sights on the biggest trophy in VALORANT — and, considering Demon1’s peak performances, this may be the year they make it happen.

As LEV makes its final decisions about its roster and coaching staff, Sheep Esports will report on any updates. To keep up with the offseason at large, check out the Sheep Esports Transfers Hub.

Editor's note: This article originally incorrectly called LEVIATÁN a Chilean organization, which has been fixed.