GM Daniil Dubov Wins 18-Game Blitz Match Against GM Hans Niemann: Settles Dispute with Lie Detector Test

GM Daniil Dubov emerged victorious in a thrilling 18-game blitz match against GM Hans Niemann, with a final score of 9.5-8.5. The match, which took place in Moscow, Russia, was a follow-up to their encounter at the FIDE World Blitz Chess Championship in New York last December.

Niemann, who flew to Moscow to play in the 2025 Aeroflot Open, struck a deal with Dubov to settle a dispute they had. In December, Dubov had forfeited their game, claiming he fell asleep in his hotel room. Niemann, however, had his doubts and suspected foul play.

The match between the two grandmasters was intense, with Dubov taking an early lead but Niemann making a remarkable comeback to even the score. In the end, Dubov clinched the victory with a nail-biting final game.

As part of the prize, Niemann has agreed to answer a question with a polygraph test. While the details are yet to be announced, the chess world eagerly awaits the outcome.

Niemann, known for organizing matches against top players, has issued challenges to other grandmasters, including a $100,000 challenge to World Blitz Co-Champion GM Ian Nepomniachtchi. His competitive spirit and determination continue to make waves in the chess community.

Stay tuned for updates on Niemann’s polygraph test and future matches as the chess world eagerly anticipates the next move in this captivating rivalry.