Joseph “Mang0” Marquez, a prominent figure in the Super Smash Bros. community and a two-time Evo champion, has been banned from participating in the upcoming Beerio Kart World Cup due to inappropriate behavior exhibited during the event. This decision follows his removal from the esports team Cloud9, where he had been a long-standing member.
The Beerio Kart World Cup, hosted by Twitch streamer Ludwig Ahgren, involved various gaming personalities competing while consuming alcohol. During the livestream, Marquez was seen engaging in behavior that many found unacceptable, including appearing intoxicated and making others uncomfortable, which was captured in multiple clips. Following the event, Ludwig expressed his disappointment and confirmed that Marquez would no longer be invited to future events organized by his company, emphasizing the importance of creating a safe and enjoyable atmosphere for all participants.
On social media, Marquez has publicly acknowledged his behavior and expressed remorse. He revealed that he is grappling with alcohol-related issues, stating, “I know it just looks like I’m trying to save face but I genuinely feel so awful about it.” He also offered apologies to those affected by his actions, stating that he takes full responsibility and has reached out to the individuals involved in an attempt to make amends.
Cloud9 released a statement confirming their decision to part ways with Marquez, highlighting that his actions were inconsistent with the organization’s values and their commitment to a zero-tolerance policy regarding harassment.
Looking ahead, it is uncertain how this incident will affect Marquez’s future in the competitive Smash Bros. scene, especially with significant events like Supernova 2025 on the horizon. He has hinted at taking a break from the gaming scene, saying he might face further bans. In a more recent statement, Marquez reiterated his regret, mentioning the personal impact of his behavior on family relationships and pledging to seek rehabilitation and make serious changes in his life.
This situation opens a broader conversation about accountability in esports and the importance of a healthy environment for gamers. It serves as a reminder of the impact that personal actions can have on professional relationships and reputations in the competitive gaming community. Despite the current challenges, there is hope that Marquez’s commitment to recovery and improvement may lead to a positive transformation in his life and career.