Former Fnatic Mid Laner and Worlds MVP Shushei Passed Away After Battle with Cancer
A lost legend of the game, Maciej "Shushei" Ratuszniak has reportedly passed away following his battle with cancer. The former mid laner put Fnatic, and Poland, on the map in the early days of competitive League of Legends, and will always remain one of the most beloved professional players to come out of Europe.
The first Worlds MVP
Shushei's year long stint with Fnatic led the squad to the trophy at the very first League of Legends World Championship all the way back in 2011. Even if Worlds at the time did not include teams from South Korea or China, Shushei's early innovative style of play and unconventional picks were impressive in their own right.
Known for his Gragas, it was actually Alistar that became his most played champion in the mid lane at Worlds Season 1. After putting up a total KDA of 6.32 at the tournament to lead Fnatic to the title, Shushei earned himself the first-ever Worlds MVP Award.
His team's victory at the World Championship also earned Shushei his own skin in League of Legends: Fnatic Gragas.
Saying goodbye to a legend
On the night of April 28th, 2025, Shushei sadly passed away from cancer at the age of 36. Though not much is known about his battle with the disease, Shushei's own sister described it as "short and fierce."
After conquering the hearts of so many League of Legends fans across the world, it is those of Shushei's family that will mourn his loss the most. A funeral for Shushei is expected to take place on May 5th, providing the chance for many to say their final goodbyes.
Shushei will forever be remembered as a legend of the game. (Credit: LoL Esports)Follow Strafe Esports for all the latest League news and our X account for the latest content and coverages. Also, stay tuned to Strafe YouTube for exclusive interviews, press conferences, and more.
Feature image credit: LoL Esports
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