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PR Balrogs full announcement on Twitter was as follows:
So Ive made a decision. It wasnt easy but Ill be retiring from fighting games this year. I sincerely appreciate the love that I got through my competitive career and I wish everyone the best :D
With Capcoms announcement that the Capcom Pro Tour will have $500,000 on the line, PR Balrogs decision can seem quite bizarre. Despite so much money being on the line, PR Balrog said that he has always played to be the best and never for the money. Since 2015 is slated to be his final year, he stated that he will do his best to go out with a bang. Expect to see him try to qualify for Capcom Cup by participating in many events throughout the year like the Evolution (Evo) World Championships.
Any fan would be inclined to believe him as well due to his immense talent. His tournament resume says it all; hes made top 8 for Street Fighter 4 at the Evolution World Championships three out of the six times it has been featured there and has won numerous other major tournaments. He was even one of eight players invited to the highly prestigious Topanga World League. His talent even extends beyond Street Fighter. Hes made top eight in three other games at the Evo and is even considered one of the 5 "Gods" of Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3. It seems like PR Balrog will excel at whatever game he chooses.
PR Balrog cited a lack of enjoyment of playing and a loss in motivation as reasons for his retirement. He still loves the scene and the community, saying that he might even evolve into a commentator after his retirement. Whatever PR Balrog chooses to do, he will likely go down as one of the greatest western Street Fighter players of all time.