Exclusive: makazze Talks IEM Cologne, Joining NAVI’s Main Roster & His “Monkey Style” Play

We caught up with Drin “makazze” Shaqiri, one of CS2’s most promising rising stars from Kosovo, for an exclusive interview ahead of IEM Cologne 2025. Now officially on NAVI’s main roster, makazze shared insight into his rapid climb, the mindset behind his game, and what fans can expect when he debuts on one of the world’s most iconic teams.

🎮 From CS 1.6 to NAVI

Q: How did your CS journey begin?

💬 "I started playing CS 1.6 when I was just 4. My brother taught me, and since then I never stopped."

Q: When did you realize you wanted to go pro?

💬 "When I joined FPL-C. That’s when I knew."

Q: What was your path to forming the KS lineup?

💬 "I grinded FPL-C hard. Then Gejmzilla asked me to play a mix tournament. It went well, and that’s how we formed the KS team."

🟡 The NAVI Journey Begins

Q: How did you join NAVI Junior? Was it instant or through tryouts?

💬 "There was a tryout — around 20–30 players. It lasted 2–3 weeks, and I got picked on the final day."

Q: Any idols or players you look up to?

💬 "No idols."

Q: How would you describe your playstyle?

💬 "Monkey style." 🐒

🗺️ Adapting to the Scene

Q: Thoughts on Anubis being replaced by Overpass?

💬 "Anubis was a sht map, so I don’t care. I’m ready for Overpass."*

Q: Your team has improved a lot. Who would you highlight from NAVI Junior?

💬 "Honestly, the whole team — Dziugss, Dem0n, Krabeni, Cmtry — and our coach Coolio. Everyone worked hard."

Q: What did winning YaLLa Compass mean to you?

💬 "It meant a lot, especially the prize pool. But all tourneys help you grow."

Q: Did you feel it was time to move on from NAVI Junior after that win?

💬 "Yeah, I felt it after YaLLa Compass."

🖤 Joining NAVI’s Main Roster

Q: What does wearing the NAVI tag mean to you?

💬 "It means a lot. Now I just have to show what I’m made of."

Q: You’re replacing jL. How did you react when you got the call?

💬 "Amiran called me. It was a normal reaction. I always felt I’d end up in NAVI sooner or later."

Q: Confident you can follow in b1t’s footsteps?

💬 "Of course I’m confident. I won’t say much — I’ll let the results speak."

Q: Are you playing jL’s roles, or has the team adapted?

💬 "Can’t say. Just be ready for IEM Cologne."

⚙️ Early Chemistry & Bootcamp Life

Q: How are practices with the main roster going?

💬 "They’re going well. I’ve already built chemistry with Aleksib and iM."

Q: Nervous around veterans?

💬 "Not really. Let’s see how it goes on the server."

Q: Any 1v1 talks with B1ad3? Advice?

💬 "Yeah, he’s helping me feel more comfortable — big help on the individual side."

🎯 IEM Cologne: First Big Test

Q: What are your personal goals for IEM Cologne? Any rating target?

💬 "I don’t care about rating or kills. Minimum goal — playoffs."

Q: What’s the team working on most?

💬 "We’re focused on communication and fixing mistakes. Even with only a 2-week bootcamp, we’re working hard."

Q: Already started scrimming? Winrate?

💬 "Yep — and winrate is 100%!"

🎧 Rituals, Media, and Mental Game

Q: Any matchday rituals? Music, videos?

💬 "Albanian gangsta music." 🎵

Q: Are you comfortable with media and fan interaction?

💬 "I’m ready for everything. I’m a little shy, but I’ll do my best."

Q: Do you follow what people say about you online?

💬 "I don’t check. Only if my friends send me something."

🌍 The CS2 Scene & NAVI’s Outlook

Q: How competitive is CS2 right now?

💬 "It’s the most competitive it’s ever been. I’m excited for the season."

Q: Your top 3 teams in the world right now? Where does NAVI stand?

💬 "1. Vitality 2. MOUZ 3. The MongolZ. NAVI just needs a bit of time — we’ll be close soon."

🟨 Final Message to the Fans

Q: What do you want to say to NAVI fans awaiting your debut?

💬 "Keep supporting us — and be ready for the NAVI ERAAAAA!" ⚡🟡🔥