The MongolZ bench Senzu — teammates and analysts react

October 22, 2025 — The MongolZ have moved 19-year-old rifler Azbayar “Senzu” Munkhbold to the bench, ending a two-year stretch of roster stability for the Mongolian lineup. The change is effective immediately. 

What Senzu said

Senzu called the news difficult but not surprising, thanking teammates and fans for the journey they shared:

“I don’t know what to say. It wasn’t unexpected. It feels like I’m leaving my home. We had many memorable moments. I wish all the best to my loved ones, and I apologize to those who supported us — sorry for the bad news. If you guys hadn’t given me such a great chance, I wouldn’t be who I am now. I just want to say: thank you and sorry for everything.” 

Teammate mzinho’s message

Teammate Ayush “mz1nho” Batbold posted a supportive note:

“It’s been an amazing journey with my lifelong friend. He’s been with me since day one — when we were 12–13 we talked about having our own stickers in the game, and I’m very happy we made it to a Major final. Life goes on. I wish all the best to my dear friend.” 

Analyst reaction: did maaRaa go too far?

Counter-Strike analyst Alex “Mauisnake” Ellenberg urged patience given coach Erdenedalai “maaRaa” Bayanbat’s track record, but questioned this specific call:

“maaRaa has made some tough choices over the years. Cutting sk0r, Bart4k, hasteka and raising new talent paid off massively… But maybe this time he went too far, parting ways with the most talented player Mongolia has ever had.” 

Official framing and what’s next

Coverage notes the move came “after careful discussions” between players and management, with replacement details still unannounced. The MongolZ are slated for a busy run: IEM Chengdu (Nov 3–9), BLAST Rivals Fall in Hong Kong, and then the StarLadder Budapest Major (from Nov 24).

Multiple outlets highlighted both the timing—less than a month before the Major—and the shock factor given The MongolZ’s recent form (EWC 2025 champions; top placings through 2025).