The VCT 2025 season isn’t slowing down one bit. Just days before Stage 2 kicks off, we’re getting hit with major roster changes, mystery health situations, map pool chaos, and one of the spiciest substitution rumors we’ve seen in a while.

Let’s break down everything going down.

Demon1 to G2? The Signs Are Stacking Up

Leaf, one of G2’s star players, was notably absent from the Esports World Cup due to health issues. In his place, the team fielded their assistant coach… and got completely rolled. After a first-round exit, fans and analysts alike started asking: who’s coming in if Leaf isn’t ready for Stage 2?

Enter Demon1.

The ex-EG prodigy tweeted that he’s “looking for a team as a Sentinel” and not long after, fans noticed his Valorant Tracker profile had a G2 logo. Coincidence? Maybe. But then G2’s IGL Valyn dropped a cheeky “yo” in reply, and Demon1 answered with a salute emoji. Suspicious? Absolutely.

While G2 hasn’t made anything official and Leaf hasn’t said a word about when he’ll be back, all signs are pointing toward Demon1 being more than just a fan wishlist. If he does suit up for G2, we could see a serious firepower boost—and a reunion with Jojopyun, his old EG teammate.

End of an Era: Mindfreak Parts Ways with Paper Rex

In a move that fans saw coming but still hit hard, Mindfreak is no longer part of Paper Rex’s main roster. After their win in Toronto, PRX realized that newcomer Pacman gave them a new edge—and Mindfreak was pushed to the reserve role.

Mindfreak posted a heartfelt message, confirming he’s now exploring options. The org gave him nothing but love and professional treatment on his way out, but it still marks the end of a long and successful chapter.

The question now is: where does Mindfreak go next? He’s too good to stay unsigned for long.

Durka Speaks Out on Fnatic’s Back-to-Back Finals Losses

Durka, now a key part of Team Vitality, was asked how it felt watching Fnatic—his former team—make two straight international finals without him… and lose both. The response was pretty measured. While he clearly still has love for his old squad, he admitted that as a competitor, it’s hard not to feel a little something when your replacement struggles.

Fnatic dropped him in favor of rising star Kayak, and while Kayak had a rough start, the team has since looked like a juggernaut—even if they haven’t been able to seal the deal in finals.

Durka now joins a retooled Vitality lineup that could be dangerous heading into Stage 2 and Champs.

Another Map Pool Shakeup? Icebox Out, Abyss In?

According to rumors, Riot is about to drop Icebox and bring back Abyss for Stage 2 playoffs and Champions. Yes, another map rotation… in the middle of the most important part of the season.

Many pros, including Boaster from Fnatic, aren’t happy about it. Icebox has been a staple in recent tournaments and removing it this late could really throw off teams’ preparation. Not to mention, Abyss was widely criticized for poor flow and awkward fights.

Unless Riot makes serious changes to Abyss, this could be one of the most controversial decisions of the year.

If the rumors are true, the map pool heading into Champs would be:

  • Abyss
  • Bind
  • Ascent
  • Sunset
  • Haven
  • Corrode
  • Lotus

Fair? Balanced? That’s up for debate.

G2’s Situation: Leaf Silence Adds to the Mystery

It’s been 10+ days since Leaf was pulled from the World Cup roster, and we still don’t know the details. G2 hasn’t updated the community, and Leaf’s Twitter has been mostly quiet aside from a cryptic reply to a now-deleted tweet.

With matches coming fast, G2 needs a plan—and if Leaf isn’t ready, Demon1 might be that answer.

Final Thoughts

Between Mindfreak leaving PRX, Durka’s quiet redemption arc on Vitality, a likely Icebox-for-Abyss swap, and Demon1 possibly joining G2, Stage 2 is shaping up to be pure Valorant chaos.

Get ready. The second half of the season is about to go nuclear.

For more breaking Valorant coverage, visit AllValorant.gg

Source: VALORANT News – TacticalRab

Frequently Asked Questions about G2, Demon1, and the VCT Stage 2 Shakeups

Who is expected to replace Leaf on G2 for Stage 2?
While nothing is official, Demon1 is the frontrunner to replace Leaf. He tweeted he’s looking for a team, fans spotted a G2 logo on his Valorant tracker, and G2 IGL Valyn even replied to the tweet.

What happened to Leaf?
Leaf is currently dealing with health issues that prevented him from attending the Esports World Cup. G2 has not provided a timeline for his return, and Leaf has not publicly addressed the situation.

Is Demon1 to G2 confirmed?
Not yet. But the signs are strong. Given his history with Jojopyun and recent online activity, it’s a very real possibility if Leaf isn’t cleared to return in time.

Why did Mindfreak leave Paper Rex?
Mindfreak was officially moved to reserve after the team found success with newcomer Pacman. PRX allowed him to explore new opportunities after a long and successful run with the squad.

What’s happening with the Valorant map pool?
There are strong rumors that Icebox will be removed and Abyss will return for Stage 2 playoffs and Champions. This has frustrated pros and fans alike, especially since Icebox has been a mainstay in competitive play.

Is Fnatic in trouble after two finals losses?
Fnatic remains one of the strongest teams in the world, but two heartbreaking grand final losses in a row have raised questions. Former player Durka, now on Vitality, commented on the situation but expressed support for the team.

Will Abyss receive updates before returning to the map pool?
It’s unclear. Riot hasn’t confirmed any changes to Abyss, and many pros (like Boaster) are unhappy about the decision unless improvements are made.