The post-TI roster shuffle continues, with Nigma Galaxy – one of the most popular teams in Dota 2 – announcing Aybek “TA2000” Tokayev as its new carry player. However, fans were disappointed by the announcement, feeling like they were baited by Amer “Miracle-” Al-Barkawi’s return. 

The announcement comes just a day after the MENA-backed organization benched Daniel “Ghost” Chan, the player widely credited for its deep run at The International 2025.

Fans Expected the GOAT, but Got a Curveball Instead

For many fans in the Nigma camp, the timing of this roster change felt like something huge was set up. The organization had just benched Ghost – arguably its best-performing player and the main reason behind its impressive Top 6 finish at The International, the best result since the team’s founding. 

Naturally, the community assured this could only mean one thing – someone better is coming. Fans were anticipating the return of Miracle, the greatest Dota 2 player of all time and Nigma’s most iconic name. 

Instead, the team revealed TA2000 as the new carry. While the Kazakh player has a proven track record and is no slouch, fans couldn’t help but feel deflated after expecting a superstar-tier signing. To them, TA2000 wasn’t a bad choice – just that the hype leading up to the announcement made anything short of Miracle feel underwhelming. 

TA2000 Reunites With Familiar Faces

Despite the anticlimactic announcement, TA2000 is still a highly capable player in his own right. He made a name for himself during his time with Quest Esports, where he became one of the most electrifying carries in the world. He set a professional record for the highest GPM ever achieved at 1254. 

Conveniently, two of his former teammates from that exact Quest roster happen to be in the current iteration of Nigma. TA2000 will reunite with Omar “OmaR” Moughrabi and Tony “No!ob” Assaf, making this reunion a natural fit. 

Give a warm welcome to ta2k, joining us on loan from Team Yandex as our Pos 1🌟 pic.twitter.com/ci0GnUprtg

— Nigma Galaxy (@NigmaGalaxy) November 5, 2025

While TA2000 may not exude the same aura or legacy as Miracle, he brings consistency and proven chemistry with the team’s core. 

Replacing Ghost Leaves Big Shoes to Fill

Still, much of the backlash stems from Ghost’s departure from the team. Many fans viewed him as the player who carried Nigma through its most successful year. 

The team had struggled to qualify for LAN events for years, but the Malaysian helped them secure their first TI qualification – and even led them to the Top 6 with numerous memorable performances. 

Fans remain disappointed and doubtful, with many considering this move a downgrade. However, only time will tell if TA2000 can rise to the occasion and take Nigma to greater heights.