Ringmaster vs Witch Doctor

How this matchup plays

Picking Ringmaster for lockdown can be tricky when a Witch Doctor is on the other team. Many of Ringmaster's control tools, especially anything that pulls enemies together, can backfire badly. Grouping opponents is exactly what Witch Doctor wants to see before he casts Maledict and channels a full Death Ward. Even a well-placed trap can become a stationary target. Paralyzing Cask is also a solid tool for interrupting whatever trick or channel Ringmaster is trying to set up, making it harder for him to execute his own plan.

During teamfights, the burden is on Ringmaster to play carefully. His best bet is to use his abilities to catch Witch Doctor directly, or to zone him away from the main engagement. If Ringmaster isn't precise, his attempt to control an enemy core will simply hand-deliver a target for Witch Doctor's spells. The Witch Doctor player gets to play reactively, staying safe in the back and waiting for Ringmaster to group heroes up for him. This interaction often puts Ringmaster on the back foot, trying to avoid setting up his opponent.