Two-Time World Champion Apathy Retires From Call Of Duty
MLG Columbus 2011, an OpTic Gaming roster won one of the first of many championships as Call of Duty (CoD) esports began to pick up some traction. The OG roster, that was pivotal in ascending the scene as we know it, lost just one game in the event - to a vVv Fly Society boasting one special 17-year-old, who had no idea to what extent he would light up the world.
Ten years and two world championship rings later, Bryan "Apathy" Zhelyazkov has retired from Call of Duty esports and goes down as one of the greatest players to ever grace the game.
Starting his career with a victory against OpTic Gaming was quite befitting for Apathy, who would go on to be a thorn in their side for a generation, especially during two stints at both Evil Geniuses and Team Envy.
It was quite a slow start for the SMG slayer in his hunt for glory, having taken just shy of three years from MLG Columbus to get his first trophy at the Call of Duty Championships Regional US Finals in 2014, although it was simply a catalyst for much more silverware to make its way onto his trophy case.
Apathy has bowed out of competitive Call of Duty with eight major offline championships to his name, including the 2016 and 2018 World Championships, putting him in an elite bracket boasting of just nine other players to have won multiple rings.
Taking a back-step from competing was actually not a decision Apathy has wanted to make, despite almost ending his career before his first ring in 2016. In a heartfelt Twitlonger, the veteran said "This isn't how I wanted all of this to end, I always told myself I wanted that 3rd ring before I retired." He soon added that he wanted to continue to be a professional going into the Call of Duty: Vanguard season, however, he found himself without any offers from teams - a somewhat surprising admission considering his undeniable talent, despite being hindered on a hopeless LAG roster.
Apathy continued to say, "I did try to get on a pro team and wanted to keep competing, but there were no opportunities or offers. I completely understand why, just felt like I had gas in the tank still."
"I am forever grateful for the life I have and most of it started from just playing a video game. It's actually mind-blowing to me but incredible at the same time. Gaming has always been my passion, I've loved it ever since I was a little kid. It helped me through some tough times growing up and you can say it was my escape. I am happy with the career I had and all the memories I've made."
As one of the greatest players of an entire generation, a historic player as a two-time champion, and a vibrant personality, Apathy will depart the scene having won over the hearts of many, becoming a true Call of Duty legend.
Continuing his story, Apathy will now devote his time to his family, including his little girl, and content creation. Previously, Ap (known as Donkey Kong in the community), and his Diddy Kong went viral for a Gulag clip in which he won the duel one-handed whilst on father duty - the two will certainly have a successful career on Twitch.