After a tough end to the 2024 competitive season, Cloud9 fans were hit with even more shocking news: C9 has reportedly parted ways with their superstar midlaner, Jojopyun, in a move that has stunned the League of Legends community.
Why Did Cloud9 Let Go of Jojopyun?
According to IWillDominate, a former professional player turned content creator, Cloud9 terminated Jojopyun’s contract due to repeated instances of tardiness.
In a video shared with the community, IWillDominate revealed that the 19-year-old player had accumulated 43 separate instances of tardiness throughout the season, leading to his contract being terminated.
C9 reportedly began tracking Jojopyun’s lateness after a series of delays affected the team’s scrims, meetings, and other professional commitments. Despite his immense skill and leadership qualities, Cloud9 could no longer overlook his repeated lateness, ultimately deciding to cut ties with the rising star.
A Young Star With Big Expectations
Jojopyun, who made his LCS debut in 2022, quickly became one of the most exciting prospects in North American League of Legends. His combination of confidence, mechanical skill, and charisma earned him a massive fanbase. As one of the highest-paid players in the league, Jojopyun’s release comes as a huge surprise to many, including his teammates and fans.
However, some in the community have expressed understanding. While pro players face immense pressure, showing up late more than 43 times is seen as a significant issue, especially for a player with the stature and responsibilities of Jojopyun.
Burnout and the Pressure of Esports
This situation has also raibsed concerns about burnout. The high stress and constant grind of the esports scene have caused many young talents to step away from the competitive stage. For example, Jojopyun’s former teammate Danny, another rising star, had to take a break from pro play due to burnout and stress.
If this is the case for Jojopyun, it might be time for both Cloud9 and the midlaner to reassess his priorities and mental well-being. With the offseason ahead, there is time for both parties to reflect and determine the best path forward before the 2025 season begins.
Conclusion
The removal of Jojopyun from Cloud9’s roster is an unexpected and concerning development for one of the LCS’s most promising players.
Whether this marks the beginning of a deeper issue related to burnout or simply a need for discipline, only time will tell. For now, fans will have to wait and see what’s next for both Jojopyun and Cloud9 in the upcoming season.