In 2024, a shocking scandal rocked the world of Chinese chess known as "Xiangqi" - the "Recording Gate" incident. This involved a series of top-ranked chess players engaging in "buying and selling games." Not only did this scandal tarnish the reputations of many top players, but it also plunged the entire Chinese chess community into an unprecedented trust crisis. The severity of the scandal was such that CCTV dedicated 20 minutes of prime time to report on it.
The incident began with inappropriate remarks made during live streams. On March 15, 2023, Grandmaster Wang Tianyi and Hao Jichao conducted live streams in their respective channels. Hao Jichao, known by the nickname "Good Technician," often mentioned his experiences at bathhouses during his live streams. When Wang Tianyi's channel mentioned Hao Jichao, Wang jokingly referred to him as "Good Technician." In response, Hao Jichao offered to provide services for Wang Tianyi's girlfriend, Yue Lejin. This jest led to a wave of online mockery, prompting Yue Lejin, who was both Wang's girlfriend and assistant, to report the incident to the police. Subsequently, the Chinese Chess Institute imposed a one-year suspension on Hao Jichao. This punishment fueled Hao's resentment towards Wang Tianyi, setting the stage for the subsequent "Recording Gate" incident.
The scandal escalated when recordings were exposed. Hao Jichao, who had close ties with another player Zhu Hongzhi, began plotting to expose Wang Tianyi's recordings under Zhu's direction in July 2023. Initially, Hao used the video account of Jiang Zhiqiang, the president of the Shanxi Chess Association and Zhu's associate, to release the recordings. The exposure of these recordings sent shockwaves through the chess community. Both Wang Tianyi and Hao Jichao hinted that the recordings were fabricated, but as the situation unfolded, mounting evidence suggested that the practice of buying and selling games was an open secret within the chess world.
The situation intensified as various factions became embroiled in the controversy. In October 2023, Dang Fei seized the opportunity to demand a thorough investigation into the "Recording Gate" incident. Having had previous conflicts with Wang Tianyi, Dang's actions may have been driven by self-interest. Wang Tianyi's former teammate and lawyer, Cai Yi, joined the fray, forming a "Justice League" with Dang Fei and Liu Dahua to push for further investigation. In March 2024, Zhu Hongzhi publicly confirmed the authenticity of the recordings, betraying Hao Jichao, which escalated the situation. By mid-April, Wang Tianyi and Wang Yuefei were taken in for investigation, and nearly all chess players ceased updating their social media accounts, seemingly seeking self-preservation.
The outcome of the scandal saw the downfall of many chess players. Half a year later, the Chinese Chess Association announced lifetime bans for Wang Tianyi and Wang Yuefei. This was followed by penalties against 41 players, including top-ranked players such as Zheng Weitong, Zhao Xin, and Wang Yang, all of whom received lifetime suspensions. This decision sent shockwaves throughout the chess community, ending the careers of many players. However, the incident appeared far from over, with some highly suspected players not included in the penalty list, and no definitive conclusions about cheating. A third official announcement is anticipated, which could implicate almost all first-line players.
The impact of the "Recording Gate" scandal has cast a shadow over the future of Chinese chess. It has not only ruined the careers of many players but also plunged the Chinese chess world into a trust crisis. This incident exposed corruption and management loopholes within the chess community, raising public doubts about the fairness of sports events. For the next decade, Chinese chess may face a developmental vacuum period, with the daunting task of rebuilding public trust and industry norms.
Cheating in chess has taken on a bizarre form with the emergence of anal bead cheating. What is anal bead cheating, and how does it work? Anal bead cheating is considered the latest form of cheating in chess matches. According to netizens' speculations, this device is undoubtedly a high-tech product. By inserting specially designed anal beads into the body, a team assists the player. Based on existing chess positions, the team uses computers to provide the best moves, subtly guiding the player through vibrations from the anal beads. There must be a code similar to Morse code between the player and the team, serving as a medium for communication. Some even believe that players can actively communicate with the off-site team by modulating the frequency of their sphincter contractions.
In conclusion, the "Recording Gate" scandal in the Chinese chess world is a typical sports scandal involving many top players and complex interests. From inappropriate remarks in live streams to the exposure of the recording scandal, the involvement of various factions, and the collective downfall of the players, this incident serves as a wake-up call. The integrity and transparency of sports events are the cornerstones of their vitality, and any corruption or improper behavior will be severely punished. It is hoped that the Chinese chess world can seize this opportunity for profound reflection, rebuild standards, regain public trust, and rejuvenate this ancient and wise sport.