If there is one thing that the FGC can agree on, it’s a hatred of anything fake. Recently, Luminosity was called out for using AI to celebrate Leonardo “MkLeo” Perez‘ fourth place finish at Kagaribi.
On May 4th, Luminosity tweeted that MkLeo is “back” after his successful showing at one of the biggest Super Smash Bros. Ultimate events of the year. The accompanying image took all of the attention from MkLeo’s showing, however, as fans accused the esports organization of using AI.
Luminosity Apologizes For Using AI
Fans reacted that Lumonisity should hire real artists, lamenting the biggest argument against AI right now: taking the precious few jobs left in the esports and gaming space.
It gets even worse
https://t.co/dJxVGzDii4
— UNAG | Deester (@deester_) May 5, 2026
In response, Luminosity claimed that its “graphics guy” was in the hospital at 3 AM that day. The org then asked fans to “pray for him.” This was later deleted.
On May 5th, Lumonisity’s owner, Steve Maida, apologized for using AI. He said the organization agrees with the reaction, reiterating the whole hospital thing. He wrote: “
We have always employed real people/designers over our 10 year existence and that will not change. This was a one-time thing in an emergency situation at 3AM. I used AI to add the text because I didn’t have access to a PC at the moment and our designer went to the hospital moments before the match started. I was unfortunately limited on options, and that may not be good enough for some ppl and I’m ok with that. I’ll take the lesson in stride. We care about human jobs and we are not becoming Skynet guys. Intent matters. “
It’s a bit of a bummer after Luminosity’s comeback in the FGC. MkLeo also deserves a bit of the attention back. Once considered the best Ultimate player in the world, MkLeo has been struggling the past few years. Japanese players have been dominating the scene, which makes Kagaribi even bigger of a deal.
It looks like MkLeo could be a threat in Ultimate once again.