TL;DR
- BearClaw Gaming’s Valorant team alleges non-payment since January 2021 contract signing
- Parent company Plynius blamed for creating ‘unstable situation’ leading to contract terminations
- Former roster now competes as Team MUYAHO while seeking new sponsorship opportunities
- Industry pattern emerges with similar payment issues affecting Phoenix1 previously
- Players continue competing despite organizational challenges and financial uncertainties
Another professional Valorant organization faces serious financial misconduct allegations as players and staff come forward with payment complaints.
Following recent controversies surrounding Phoenix1’s alleged failure to compensate former competitors, BearClaw Gaming encounters similar accusations regarding contractual obligations. According to General Manager Steven Kim’s statements, the organization’s corporate parent Plynius neglected financial responsibilities toward team members while providing inadequate operational support. Kim revealed compensation ceased entirely from the January signing date when BearClaw recruited their complete Korean roster lineup.
Lacking essential financial backing and organizational infrastructure, all contracted individuals severed their agreements. Kim characterized Plynius’s management approach as generating “operational instability” contradicting contractual commitments.
????Announcement to all the fans in Esports????
I appreciate the retweet, this is a huge issue and I hope other people know about this.
리트윗 부탁드립니다. 여러분들의 도움이 필요합니다! 꼭 널리 널리 퍼트려주세요. 이스포츠에서 이런 일들이 다시는 일어나지 않아야 합니다.
pic.twitter.com/rebXiluBOl— Steven Kim (@StevenKim_96)
February 14, 2021
Kim emphasized the competitors’ commitment to remaining within Valorant’s competitive landscape. He detailed their ongoing search for optimal pathways to develop their competitive capabilities and technical expertise. Currently, the group participates in available competitions under an alternative organizational identity.
BearClaw Gaming’s Chief Executive Officer Harley Parks provided corroborating testimony during media interactions, confirming that neither team members nor administrative personnel received payments since initial 2021 contractual engagements. Parks maintained control over the BearClaw Gaming intellectual property and dissolved the business arrangement with Plynius. The CEO clarified that contractual agreements existed directly with Plynius rather than BearClaw Gaming, establishing clear corporate responsibility for payment failures.
The previous BearClaw Gaming Valorant lineup currently competes using the designation Team MUYAHO. This Korean squad actively pursues new sponsorship arrangements while aiming for competitive breakthrough opportunities.
Industry Analysis: This situation reflects broader concerns within esports regarding financial stability and contract enforcement. Organizations frequently face challenges maintaining consistent payment schedules, particularly when corporate structures involve multiple entities. Players should verify contract signatories and payment terms before committing to competitive rosters.
Competitive Implications: Despite organizational instability, professional competitors demonstrate remarkable resilience by continuing tournament participation. This dedication highlights their commitment to career development despite administrative hurdles.
Contract Verification Strategies: Professional gamers should insist on clear payment schedules, defined consequences for non-payment, and direct contractual relationships with funding entities. Understanding corporate hierarchies proves essential for protecting financial interests in complex organizational structures.
Payment Protection Measures: Establish escrow arrangements for significant signing bonuses. Request partial advance payments before relocating or making major commitments. Maintain detailed records of all financial transactions and communications.
Legal Safeguards: Consult with esports legal specialists before signing agreements. Include termination clauses with specific breach definitions and remedy procedures. Verify trademark ownership and organizational legitimacy through independent research.
Action Checklist
- Verify corporate structure and contractual signatory authority
- Document all payment schedules and missed compensation instances
- Consult with esports legal professionals before agreement finalization
- Establish clear termination clauses with defined breach conditions
No reproduction without permission：Game Guides Online » BearClaw Gaming’s Valorant roster, staff claim missed payments BearClaw Gaming's Valorant team faces payment crisis as players and staff allege contract violations