In a stark reminder of the challenges surrounding gender inclusivity, League of Legends (LoL) professional player Gabriël “Bwipo” Rau, a top laner for FlyQuest, faced swift repercussions for making controversial “monthly cycle” comments during a livestream. This incident has triggered widespread debate within the esports community, highlighting the urgent need for greater education and accountability regarding sexism and gender equality. The suspension of Bwipo by FlyQuest on September 9, 2025, underscores the seriousness with which such remarks are being taken, signaling a potential shift towards a more inclusive and respectful environment within professional gaming.
The Controversial Comments
The controversy erupted on September 2, 2025, when Bwipo, during a personal Twitch stream, shared his views on women’s participation in esports. According to reports, Bwipo suggested that female players should avoid competitive play during their menstrual cycles, citing perceived emotional and physical disadvantages. His exact words, as quoted in FlyQuest’s official statement, included the assertion that “There is a time of the month where you should not be f***ing playing competitive games as a woman, in my opinion.” He attempted to justify his statement by claiming it was based on his “experience” and not intended to be sexist, further suggesting that women could use alternative accounts or focus on VOD reviews during these times.
Viral Backlash
Clips of Bwipo’s comments quickly went viral across various social media platforms, including Reddit, X (formerly Twitter), and TikTok, reaching a peak virality by September 9, 2025. The reaction was overwhelmingly negative. Fans, fellow professional players, and esports personalities widely condemned the remarks as sexist, ignorant, and detrimental to the ongoing efforts to promote women in gaming. Critics argued that such comments trivialize the existing challenges faced by women in the industry and reinforce outdated stereotypes, hindering progress toward a more equitable and inclusive environment.
FlyQuest’s Swift Response
In response to the widespread outcry, FlyQuest, Bwipo’s North American esports organization, took decisive action. On September 9, 2025, the organization announced Bwipo’s suspension from the next series of the LTA playoffs. FlyQuest emphasized that Bwipo’s comments were “antithetical” to the organization’s core values. According to their official statement, FlyQuest is committed to “making the gaming space better and helping all individuals reach the highest levels of play.” In addition to the suspension, FlyQuest announced that Bwipo’s event prize money would be donated to initiatives supporting women in gaming, demonstrating a tangible commitment to addressing the harm caused by his remarks.
Impact and Aftermath: Monthly Cycle Controversy
The incident has had a significant impact on both Bwipo’s professional standing and FlyQuest’s public image. The controversy sparked a broader conversation within the esports community about the urgent need for education and accountability regarding gender sensitivity and inclusivity. The swift and decisive action taken by FlyQuest was largely praised, although some critics argued that further measures were necessary to address the underlying issues of sexism within the industry.
Bwipo’s Apology and Community Reaction
Following his suspension, Bwipo issued a public apology, acknowledging that his comments were “ignorant and disrespectful.” He expressed regret for using his platform to “fuel vitriol and sexism.” While his apology was noted by the community, opinions remained divided on its sincerity and sufficiency. Some viewed it as a genuine attempt to take responsibility for his actions, while others felt it was inadequate in addressing the harm caused by his remarks. The controversy continues to highlight the ongoing struggle for true inclusivity in the competitive gaming world, emphasizing the need for continuous dialogue and proactive measures to combat sexism and promote gender equality.
The Broader Implications
This incident involving Bwipo underscores a larger issue within the esports industry: the persistent underrepresentation and marginalization of women. While progress has been made in recent years to promote diversity and inclusion, incidents like this serve as a reminder that significant challenges remain. The esports community, including organizations, professional players, and fans, must actively work together to create a more welcoming and equitable environment for all. This includes providing education and training on gender sensitivity, implementing stricter codes of conduct, and holding individuals accountable for their actions.
The Bwipo controversy also highlights the power and responsibility that professional players have as role models. Their words and actions, both on and off the virtual stage, can have a significant impact on the broader community. It is crucial that professional players use their platforms to promote positive values, challenge harmful stereotypes, and advocate for inclusivity. Only through collective effort and a commitment to change can the esports industry truly become a welcoming and equitable space for all individuals, regardless of gender.
Conclusion
The suspension of Bwipo following his controversial “monthly cycle” comments serves as a pivotal moment in the ongoing conversation about gender inclusivity within esports. While FlyQuest’s swift action and Bwipo’s subsequent apology represent steps in the right direction, the incident underscores the persistent need for education, accountability, and a collective commitment to fostering a more welcoming and equitable environment for women in competitive gaming. The future of esports hinges on its ability to embrace diversity and challenge harmful stereotypes, ensuring that all individuals have the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential.