Cover image via Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and WhatsApp for the latest stories and breaking news.
Competitive gaming is a serious sport, but one professional Pokémon player recently discovered that the toughest opponent might just be body odour
Texas-based Pokémon VGC regional champion Donghun Youm went viral on X after sharing a rather stomach-churning experience from the 2026 Baltimore Regional Championships.
According to Youm, a nearby competitor smelled so horrific that it caused him to throw up right there at the venue.
"I've had an incident at Baltimore regionals where I had to throw up due to a nearby player's stench," he said.
He added that the putrid smell made it impossible for him and his friends to focus on their matches, prompting them to alert a judge
The incident has since ignited a fierce debate online about basic hygiene standards at major esports and tabletop events.
Naturally, the Internet responded with a flurry of memes, specifically referencing the Pokémon ability 'Stench', which has a 10% chance of making an opponent flinch.
One commenter argued that anyone who can afford a gaming console should be able to buy a USD3 (RM13) stick of deodorant.
"People who smell bad should be kicked out," another user added, echoing a growing frustration within the gaming community.
The official Play! Pokémon Tournament Rules Handbook actually mandates a socially acceptable level of personal hygiene
Tournament organisers reserve the right to ask pungent players to change their clothes or leave the venue entirely.
It remains unclear if the offensively smelly player in Baltimore faced any penalties.
However, Youm's plea serves as a potent reminder for competitive players everywhere: Please take a shower before you battle.
