MinD_ContRoL will compete in TI12 with Team SMG

TI7 winner, Ivan Borislavov "MinD_ContRoL" Ivanov, will compete on the stage of The International 2023 (TI12) as he stands in for the Southeast Asian team, Team SMG. The Bulgarian offlaner has missed TI for two years in a row since 2021 following a short stint in the Western Europe qualifiers. Despite failing to qualify again this year, MinD_ContRoL will still be present at TI under different circumstances.

Here is Team SMG's roster for TI12:

Singaporean organization, Team SMG, has been quite an interesting name last year. From Ninjaboogie's controversy to missing the TI roster lock deadline, SMG (aka Still Moving Under Gunfire) literally moved under intense gunfire.

The org once again makes headlines this year but for different reasons. The team, led by prominent player, MidOne, joined hands with the decorated veteran, No[o]ne- in a last-minute effort before the TI12 Qualifier.

The team showcased instant chemistry by obliterating the Upper Bracket of the SEA qualifier, defeating Filipino powerhouse, Blacklist International, in the Finals. This marks SMG's first time qualifying for a TI as an organization.

But with TI being held in the notoriously strict USA, VISA issues were bound to happen. SMG's Thai offlaner, Masaros, failed to secure his VISA and couldn't attend his debut TI. Nigma Galaxy, now quite the hot spot for stand-ins, will lend its star player, MinD_ContRoL to Team SMG. Team SMG now fields a bizarre lineup with forces from across regions.

Previously, rumors stated that Puppey was on standby to stand in for Team SMG. This likely follows a turbulent VISA process for Jaunuel. But Jaunuel has likely received his VISA and will be able to play in Seattle, USA.

It is the calm before the storm. Teams have arrived or are making their way to the nostalgic Seattle, USA. TI12 will pit twenty teams from across the world to crown the next Aegis of Champions. Read more about TI12 below!

We'll keep covering TI12 on esports.gg so stay tuned!