Jimpphat on MOUZ Benching and New Start at Aurora

Jimi “Jimpphat” Salo expressed surprise after MOUZ moved him to the bench mid-season. He was informed of the decision by Dennis “sycrone” Nielsen at IEM Rio. The 19-year-old rifler had signed a one-year extension with MOUZ in early 2025, was benched in April 2026 and has since joined Aurora.

In a 50-minute podcast interview, Jimpphat described being told that both he and teammate Brollan would be benched. He said he received no prior indication that he would play in the Major and remains unclear whether the change originated with the coaching staff or the broader organization.

Jimpphat praised his time at MOUZ while questioning the timing of the decision. “It was a really good time, so I have no bones to pick with MOUZ,” he recalled, adding that he found it frustrating to be sidelined during the season when he wanted to continue playing.

He recounted that sycrone told him Brollan would take the Major spot because the roles were thought to match better. After watching the Major, Jimpphat said he observed Brollan playing many of the same positions he had held, which left him puzzled about the reasoning.

On his contract, Jimpphat said he requested a one-year extension at the start of 2025 because he was already interested in joining another team. He thanked MOUZ for agreeing to shorter terms. A rumored transfer to Falcons did not proceed because MOUZ was not ready to negotiate at the time.

Jimpphat joined Aurora as part of the club’s international roster changes. He described Aurora as “a really, really good team” and said he is happy to join but cautious about expectations. “I can’t say yet what to expect,” he added, noting he must adapt to different teammates, coaches and systems after a long spell at MOUZ.

The full interview runs about 50 minutes and is available with English subtitles. It offers Jimpphat’s account of the events leading to his departure from MOUZ and his outlook as he begins with Aurora.