Thai esports athlete Cheerio, known by his nickname Kong, posted a video on Tiktok on 2/1 to take responsibility for impersonating another player during the SEA Games 33. This confession follows a cheating incident on 15/12/2025, where Wasarin Naraphat, known as Tokyogurl, was found to have cheated during Thailand's 0-3 loss to Vietnam in the Arena of Valor event. The Thailand Esports Federation (TESF) determined that Tokyogurl used unauthorized third-party software, allowing another individual to play remotely. Subsequently, Tokyogurl was disqualified from the Games.

In his video, Cheerio stated, "I admit to having impersonated a player to compete at SEA Games 33, as reported by the media. I have had time to reflect and feel remorse for what I have done, and I want to extend my sincere apologies to society as a whole." He further acknowledged his actions as "selfish" and something that "tarnished Thailand's reputation." The former member of the Bangkok ESC team accepted all criticism and consequences, offering no excuses. Cheerio extended his apologies to TESF President Santih Lotthong, the women's Arena of Valor team, and the female players whose opportunities he compromised.

Cheerio (right) admitted assisting Naphat Warasin in cheating in the arena of valor event at sea games 33.

Cheerio's confession came 18 days after the incident. He explained the delay, saying, "I made this delayed decision due to the overwhelming and relentless public backlash, to the point where I was caught off guard and didn't know what to do or how to handle it. I sincerely apologize." This morning, on her personal Facebook page, Tokyogurl also posted a brief apology: "I apologize."

Screenshot accusing Tokyogurl of cheating in the match against Vietnam.

TESF President Santih Lotthong confirmed that organizers detected irregularities immediately when Tokyogurl accessed the competition desk and unilaterally manipulated device settings before the match. He emphasized that esports leaves clear technical traces on devices, making all login and setup actions traceable. Referees recorded the presence of two logged-in accounts within the same application and preserved all images and data as evidence. Santih also clarified that only Tokyogurl faced disciplinary action because the international referee panel determined that the remaining players did not use prohibited software or assist in the cheating. However, to demonstrate responsibility and national honor, the entire team collectively agreed to withdraw from SEA Games 33.

The fallout from the incident was swift and severe. By 18/12/2025, publisher Garena banned Tokyogurl from all Arena of Valor tournaments, effective from 16/12/2025. Her managing team, TALON, confirmed the immediate termination of her contract. Additionally, the RoV Esports organizers imposed the highest level of discipline: a lifetime ban on Tokyogurl, concluding one of the most serious scandals in Thai esports history. The incident severely damaged the image of Thai esports and became a prominent scandal of an already controversial SEA Games 33.