In a surprising series of events, Gabriel 'Bwipo' Rau, the renowned top-laner of FlyQuest, finds himself at the center of a significant representational decision by Riot Games. After a suspension prompted by his controversial remarks during a livestream, where he inappropriately discussed the involvement of women in gaming, Bwipo is now being entirely removed from the highly anticipated Worlds 2025 anthem video.
Impact on Riot Games' Production
The decision by Riot Games to edit Bwipo out of the video required a major overhaul in their production plans. Originally slated for an October 10th premiere, the release has now been delayed by three days, with the debut reset for October 13th. This decision underscores the company's commitment to maintaining its standards of inclusivity and respect within the gaming community.
Riot Games’ statement on the matter highlighted that while the removal was due to Bwipo's inappropriate comments, it was not intended as a competitive sanction against him or his team. Bwipo's presence was intended to represent the Americas region, and consequently, that region will not be depicted in this year’s music video. The company characterized this choice as representational rather than punitive.
Response from Bwipo and FlyQuest
Neither Bwipo nor FlyQuest have publicly commented on Riot's decision at this time. However, in previous statements, Bwipo has acknowledged the inappropriateness of his remarks and has issued an apology, describing them as both ignorant and disrespectful. Since his apology, Bwipo has returned to competitive play, leading his team to victory in the LTA Championship finals this past September and securing their qualification for the upcoming Worlds tournament.
Expectations for Worlds 2025
With the release of the Worlds 2025 music video on the eve of the tournament, all eyes are on Riot Games to see how they've navigated this unique situation. The event is expected to capture the excitement of the competitors and fans alike, culminating in the grand final on November 9th. Despite this controversy, Bwipo's skill and contribution to FlyQuest cannot be overlooked, as his performance continues to contribute significantly to their success in the competitive arena.
