Solo says match-fixing should now carry a lifetime ban

Solo says match-fixing should now carry a lifetime ban

Alexey "Solo" Berezin believes players caught participating in match-fixing should now receive lifetime bans, arguing that the punishment is necessary to discourage similar cases in professional Dota 2.

Solo's comments carry particular weight because of his own history with the issue.

In 2013, he was involved in the incident that gave Dota's "322" term its meaning after betting against his own team and winning $322.

Solo initially received a lifetime ban from StarLadder before the punishment was later reduced, allowing him to return to professional competition.

Solo says he was fortunate

Solo has previously acknowledged that he was fortunate to receive the opportunity to continue his career.

He said his case was the first major precedent of its kind and that he escaped with what ultimately became a one-year suspension.

Looking at the current competitive scene, Solo said lifetime bans should now be regarded as the appropriate punishment for match-fixing.

He also suggested his experience could serve as a warning to younger players considering involvement in fixed matches.

The debate around permanent bans has remained active in Dota 2 following several recent competitive-integrity cases and discussions over whether previously banned players should ever be allowed to return.