Watson revealed a detail about his transfer to Gaimin Gladiators

The situation that led to Alimzhan "Watson" Islamibekov joining Gaimin Gladiators was Cloud9 almost ultimatum-like behavior with their players.

Cloud9 was giving them no choice. “Watson” Islamibekov explained this on the KD CAST YouTube channel.

“We had a team meeting after our exit from the TI and we agreed to remove Fishman. However, during the afterparty, things were different. If we did not inform the Cloud9 management by 12 am that we wanted to remain with the team, they would be ready to start replacing us. Many people were willing to leave. Turns out, they were already looking for new players. This is when Gladiators came to me. We spoke, and then a couple of weeks later, I was told I fit the roste”

The context was after Cloud9 elimination from The International 2024. The organization had adopted a new policy where players were now required to notify management if they wanted to stay with the team, usually by the Cup’s end. Not meeting the requirements would mean the team starts looking for new players. So, not long after, Cloud9 had contacted Watson to inform him they were recruiting him under the Gaimin Gladiators.

Gaimin Gladiators recently lost their captain, who will be replaced by Arman "Malady" Orazbayev who is a close friend of Watson.