Kirill “Boombl4” Mikhailov is officially of out Natus Vincere’s Counter-Strike: Global Offensive roster, but it may not have anything to do with his gameplay.
Natus Vincere has officially announced the departure of longtime captain Boombl4. Based on statements from the sponsor and his former teammates, Boombl4’s kick is not related to his in-game performance. Instead, it’s because he represents “high reputational risks for the club.” The kick is possibly related to recent controversial statements made by his wife.
Natus Vincere first announced Boombl4 being kicked on May 28 with a statement on its website. Na’Vi thanked Boombl4 for his contributions towards several big championship wins including the team’s flawless Stockholm Major run and the third Intel Grand Slam. Boombl4’s own teammates also had positive things to say, including superstar AWPer Oleksandr “s1mple” Kostyliev.
Natus Vincere did not immediately announce a replacement for Boombl4, but the team should announce a fifth player before BLAST Premier: Spring Finals 2022 starting June 15. A popular fan request for the team is Mareks “YEKINDAR” Gaļinskis, who recently left Virtus.pro. Considering the unexpected nature of the kick, it may be multiple weeks before a replacement is revealed.
As for why Boombl4 was kicked from Na’Vi, and many fans have theorized that it’s related to recent views expressed by his wife.
As a mixed Ukrainian and Russian team, Natus Vincere CSGO is particularly sensitive toward the current state of politics in the region. Boombl4’s wife recently posted photos of herself on social media with the Russian flag painted onto her face along with a patriotic message. Some have interpreted this as inflammatory. It’s not confirmed that this is related to Boombl4’s kick, but other esports players have also punished players over statements related to the region’s hardships.
Boombl4 made headlines with his marriage proposal after winning PGL Stockholm Major in 2021. Fans immediately scrambled to learn more about his fiancée. It was discovered that she had an adult entertainment career prior to the pair’s relationship. The couple previously announced intentions to divorce, but reconciled just days later.
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