After weeks of speculation regarding Fnatic star Olof “olofmeister” Kajbjer, he reportedly joined FaZe Clan on Thursday to replace Fabien “kioShiMa” Fiey. But kioShiMa did not find out about the move until Wednesday night, according to multiple sources close to the team and player. This sudden turn of events has left kioShiMa with little to no options before the ESL Pro League roster lock, which comes into effect at the end of Thursday.
According to sources, kioShiMa was aware of FaZe Clan’s ambitions to acquire olofmeister but was under the impression he would still play for the team. He had no opportunity during the vacation period after the PGL Krakow Major to negotiate with other teams and explore where to play. It is not impossible for kioShiMa to join a new team, as ESL Pro League teams are allowed two roster moves each season. But with the deadline already extended three additional days, not many opportunities are left for him.
KioShiMa played effectively for FaZe Clan for a majority of his tenure, with his worst event coming at Major last month. Olofmeister will join the team after the addition of superstar AWPer Ladislav “GuardiaN” Kovács.
Often dubbed “the problem,” kioShiMa has been removed from teams seemingly first throughout his career. On EnVyUs, he was replaced by a significantly less skilled player in Timothée “DEVIL” Démolon after being described as the “biggest issue.” After joining FaZe, kioShiMa was benched when in-game leader Finn “karrigan” Andersen joined the team only to re-join the active lineup a month later. This time, Aleksi “allu” Jalli got the boot first before kioShiMa was once again replaced.
KioShiMa could not be reached for comment. FaZe Clan did not initially respond to request for comment.
Editor’s note: The original headline was changed from “kicked” to “replaced” because kioShiMa is still technically on the roster.
Cover photo courtesy of Turner Sports/ELEAGUE