9Pandas has announced that Roman “RAMZES666” Kushnarev will no longer be a part of the organization and released an official statement regarding his departure from the team.
It wrote on Twitter, “RAMZES666 set to pursue career beyond 9Pandas Esports. Thank you, Roman, for your standout drafts and memorable highlights throughout this year’s major tournaments, this year’s been a blast.“
It also noted that details about the new Dota 2 roster will be made available to the fans soon after negotiations are complete.
9Pandas Bid Adieu to RAMZES666
In its official statement, 9Pandas said, “It is with mixed emotions that we share a significant decision for the upcoming 2024 Dota 2 season,” revealing that RAMZES666 has departed from the roster.
The organization thanked the pro player for his contributions to the team, his standout drafts, and his highlight players from this year’s major tournaments.
It added, “Renowned as an experienced carry, Ramzes has been a pillar of support for emerging talents, and his legendary partnership with Alexey “Solo” Berezin has left an indelible mark on the professional gaming scene.“
It also wished RAMZES666 the best of luck for his future endeavors and noted that it wishes to see him as a competitor in the 2024 pro season.
9Pandas Dota 2 Roster Overhaul?
Additionally, 9Pandas seemingly confirmed a overhaul of its Dota 2 roster for 2024. It stated that details about the roster will be confirmed once negotiations with players, coaches, and support staff are complete.
Interestingly, it was only in October 2023 that the organization responded to rumors regarding its Dota 2 roster disbanding. Following its premature exit from The International 2023, a few in the community had suggested that an overhaul was imminent in the 9Pandas camp.
Addressing Russian caster Vladimir “Maelstorm” Kuzminov’s theory of the team disbanding, 9Pandas posted on its Telegram channel (translated), “Mael came up with a great horror story for Halloween!“
However, according to 9Pandas’ Liquipedia, this is its current, active roster:
RAMZES666 joined 9Pandas in April 2023. While the team performed well in the group stage of The International 2023, it struggled in the playoffs, losing to LGD Gaming and then to Gaimin Gladiators. It eventually placed in 9th-12th place.
Having won five Dota 2 majors, RAMZES666 is considered one of the most accomplished pro players in the Dota 2 landscape. With him departing 9Pandas after just one year, it will be interesting to see which team’s jersey he dons in the next competitive season.
