“Individually G2 are great. But as a team — no”. Boombl4 on Legends Stage, preparation, and his dreams to be a massage therapistExclusive

During an exclusive interview at PGL Major Antwerp 2022, NAVI’s in-game leader Kirill “Boombl4” Mikhailov detailed his team’s meticulous approach to playoff readiness. The conversation with esports correspondent Marie Gunina revealed NAVI’s systematic methodology for maintaining competitive edge at the highest level.

[On preparations for Heroic]

Following our flawless 3-0 qualification run, we strategically allocated one recovery day before initiating an intensive three-day practice regimen. This structured approach allows us to concentrate specifically on map strategies we anticipate deploying against Heroic during the quarterfinals. Our training sessions maintain serious intensity—we recognize these limited preparation windows as critical for playoff success and don’t engage in casual practice sessions.

[Is there any difference between coming to Major as an ordinary participant and as a defending champion?]

Achieving back-to-back Major victories like Astralis accomplished would establish an impressive legacy, though their three-peat remains the ultimate benchmark. Securing consecutive championships undoubtedly amplifies opponents’ psychological apprehension when facing us.

The defending champion status doesn’t inherently create additional pressure, but becomes problematic if you obsess over it. We maintain confidence in our ability to claim another Major while avoiding fixation on the title defense narrative.

[How’s your Pick’Em?]

Contrary to fan expectations, I completely avoid participating in Pick’Em challenges. The prediction system doesn’t capture my competitive interest, though I recognize this might surprise our supporters.

[On Legends Stage]

Team Spirit delivered particularly impressive performances with their undefeated run and remarkable comeback victory against Heroic. Similarly, Imperial’s unexpected advancement deserves recognition—they overcame massive skepticism to defeat Cloud9, previously considered one of the most consistent rosters, demonstrating how underdog teams can disrupt established hierarchies.

The Copenhagen Flames narrative presents an interesting case study: they consistently achieve initial Best-of-One successes at Majors but historically struggle in advancement matches. Their playoff qualification required a crucial Bo3 victory, though against less formidable opposition, suggesting quarterfinal success remains unlikely.

While the community expressed surprise at G2’s early exit, the outcome was predictable given their recent roster changes. Integrating a new in-game leader and primary AWPer simultaneously creates coordination challenges that even exceptional individual talent cannot immediately overcome.

Cloud9’s elimination proved particularly disappointing. The situation surrounding Abay’s controversy certainly didn’t help, but witnessing their visible disappointment was difficult despite our competitive rivalry. The perceived animosity between our teams is overstated—I maintain respect for their players and genuinely felt sympathy for their early departure.

[On recent scandals in CS]

Competitive environments inevitably generate drama, but professional competitors must prioritize immediate objectives like Major tournaments. Before departing for Antwerp, I explicitly informed my family about my necessary emotional detachment from external issues—these distractions compromise performance and create unnecessary conflicts.

Current focus remains exclusively on team collaboration and in-game execution. This concentrated approach enables maximum contribution, sustained concentration, and optimal results. Previous implementation of this strategy proved effective, suggesting its potential success in the current competitive context. While scandals and controversies are unavoidable in esports, successful athletes develop the capacity for selective emotional distancing when required.

[How one can prescind from all the fuss]

Immersing myself in Counter-Strike gameplay naturally eliminates external preoccupations. When intrusive thoughts occur, I find value in confiding with trusted companions—verbalizing concerns provides emotional relief. Additional coping mechanisms include music therapy, adequate rest, and conscious thought redirection. Fixation on singular issues becomes counterproductive, and recognizing this limitation is crucial for competitive longevity.

[Dreams besides CS]

Beyond my esports career, I’m seriously pursuing certification as a licensed massage therapist—this isn’t a casual remark. Therapeutic massage has represented a longstanding personal interest, with previous informal practice receiving positive feedback about my manual strength and technique. Developing professional massage skills represents a genuine post-competitive aspiration.

Obviously, competitive goals remain tournament victories and maintaining top-tier team status. However, understanding that professional development extends beyond gaming creates important life balance. Mastering massage therapy while fostering global harmony summarizes my broader ambitions outside the professional gaming sphere.

Magixx’s interview: “If the price for winning a major is a bald head, I’m ready!”
A frank talk.

Professional gamers often overlook the importance of developing transferable skills that extend beyond their competitive careers. This forward-thinking approach to professional development demonstrates maturity that many competitors lack during their active gaming years.

No reproduction without permission：Game Guides » “Individually G2 are great. But as a team — no”. Boombl4 on Legends Stage, preparation, and his dreams to be a massage therapistExclusive NAVI captain Boombl4 shares insights on Major preparation, team dynamics, and surprising career aspirations