DRG Nicc convinced Demon1 joining as emergency VCT sub could ‘lead’ them to Champions

Beyond their accomplishments in VCT 2025 so far, Dragon Ranger Gaming’s latest roster move ahead of VALORANT Champions Paris could be what propels them into becoming the league’s next dark horse team—or so their standout initiator player, Nicc, believes.

As announced on Sept. 5, former world champion Demon1 is now a part of DRG’s roster, which is set to appear at the year-end tournament starting Sept. 12. While his role is that of a “temporary stand-in player,” it’d be odd for DRG to keep a player of his stature benched. In fact, Nicc says Demon1’s experience as a former VCT winner can “lead” them in the competition.

“Demon1 was once the world champion, that his comprehension of the game, the content, and some of his thoughts were really awesome.” Nicc said (translated) in a press conference, when asked about what the former Americas player brought to their pro VALORANT roster. “And I always believe that he could lead us, like in this tournament, based on his experience before.”

That said, Demon1 may not appear in every match DRG plays at the VCT Champions. According to Nicc, vo0kashu, the player slated to be replaced, only “might have some issues.”

Although vo0kashu has been a key player for DRG, he previously revealed that potential visa complications could prevent him from competing in Paris. At the same time, he reassured fans that the chances of resolving the matter are high, leaving the door open for him to join the team at any time during Champions. 

Still, given Demon1’s track record, he certainly wouldn’t have been a cheap signup for DRG. So, he may remain a part of the active roster even after vo0kashu returns.

For now, Demon1 is expected to play for DRG in at least a few of their opening Paris matches. His exact role on the roster remains a mystery, but since he’s set to stand in for a sentinel player, fans will likely see him in a similar position. 

But what’s most concerning is the potential communication issues that could arise from the language barrier within the team. Demon1 also hasn’t been an active presence in the VCT recently, with his last-recorded pro game being with Leviatán during Americas Stage one back in April 2025. Can DRG and Demon1 overcome these hurdles and pull off a Cinderella run? Ah, what a dream that would be for the audience.