Remembering Shushei, LoL Worlds' First MVP

Remembering Shushei: LoL’s First Worlds MVP and a True Esports Pioneer

The League of Legends community is mourning the loss of a true icon. Maciej “Shushei” Ratuszniak, the first-ever Worlds MVP and a champion of LoL’s early esports scene, has passed away at the age of 36 after a battle with cancer. His influence on the game and its competitive scene was immense, and his passing marks the end of an era for long-time fans and players alike.

A Founding Father of Competitive LoL Shushei rose to fame in 2011 as a key member of Fnatic’s legendary roster, which captured the title at the very first League of Legends World Championship — the Riot Season 1 Championship. Alongside teammates xPeke, Cyanide, LaMiaZeaLoT, Mellisan, and substitute wewillfailer, Shushei helped set the standard for future professional LoL teams. His dominant Gragas play didn’t just help secure the victory; it earned him the honor of being named the first-ever Worlds MVP.

That moment solidified his place in LoL history, laying the groundwork for the thriving global esports scene we know today.

A Lasting Legacy in Game

In recognition of his MVP performance, Shushei was given the rare opportunity to choose a champion for a commemorative skin. He naturally selected his signature pick, Gragas. The Fnatic Gragas skin has since become a symbol of LoL’s early competitive roots and remains in the game as a tribute to his lasting influence. For many players climbing the ranked ladder today, seeing that skin serves as a reminder of the game's beginnings — and of the players who helped boost its popularity from the ground up.

Outside of the Worlds stage, Shushei’s talent continued to shine. He claimed victories at multiple Intel Extreme Masters events, including IEM New York Season 6 and IEM Hanover 2011 with different squads. He was never one to fade quietly — always adapting, always pushing the meta.

Innovator and Entertainer

Known for his creative playstyle, Shushei was among the first pros to bring unconventional picks into competitive viability. He famously used AP Evelynn and Vi before they were widely adopted and helped define the role of AP Carries with champions like Gragas and Alistar. His innovation didn’t just help his own rank — it shaped how the game evolved on both casual and professional levels.

Beyond his in-game achievements, Shushei also left behind some unforgettable moments. After securing a win at the LCS Warsaw qualifiers, he celebrated with a chest bump that accidentally sent teammate Hosan tumbling to the floor — a lighthearted memory that still brings smiles to fans and former teammates alike.

More Than Just a League Star Shushei’s legacy isn’t confined to League of Legends. Before his rise in LoL esports, he was a top-tier player in Heroes of Newerth and an accomplished World of Warcraft player, even receiving a legendary axe from his guild during Wrath of the Lich King. His passion for games and dedication to competition were evident long before he ever picked up Gragas.

For many players looking to boost their skills or rank, his journey offered inspiration. He wasn’t just mechanically gifted — he was a student of the game, always seeking improvement and embracing new challenges.

A Community in Mourning

Following news of his passing, the global LoL community came together to pay tribute. FNATIC changed their profile and cover photos on X (formerly Twitter) to his iconic Worlds Gragas skin in his honor. Tributes poured in from players, casters, and organizations across the globe.

LEC host Eefje “Sjokz” Depoortere posted:

“Rest in peace Shushei… one of the first greats of our game. Way too young to go… no words.”

Coach and former teammate Jakob “YamatoCannon” Mebdi echoed those sentiments:

“RIP legend. I will never forget the memories we share.”

Others, including LEC host Laure "Bulii" Valée, G2 Esports, SK Gaming, Heretics, GiantX, and more, joined in offering condolences. It’s clear that Shushei’s impact stretched far beyond the Rift — he inspired an entire generation of competitors and fans alike.

Honoring the First MVP

In an ever-evolving game like League of Legends, it’s easy to focus on the latest patch, the next boost in skill, or climbing the ranked ladder. But moments like this remind us of the roots — the players who shaped the path so many now walk.

Shushei was more than a player. He was a pioneer, a teammate, an innovator, and a legend. His presence will be missed, but his impact on LoL, esports, and the people he inspired will never be forgotten.

Your legacy lives on in all of us, Shushei. Thank you for everything.

 

GG Boost, the Best Elo Boosting Experience!