Introduction
Kirill Churikov, known to the online chess world as kirra85, is a blitz-loving tactician who treats the clock like a mischievous opponent and the board as a playground. Since his early days in the rapid-fire arena, he has woven a reputation for sharp lines, quick calculations, and a knack for turning chaotic tactical skirmishes into teachable moments.
Playing Style
Kirra85 thrives on speed and surprise. His blitz games often swing on a single tactical shot or a well-timed pawn push that accelerates the middlegame into a puzzle the opponent didn’t expect to solve. He embraces aggressive ideas and enjoys venturing into double-edged lines where both players can win on the spot or learn a harsh lesson in time management. When the clock starts ticking, his sense of humor keeps his opponents on their toes as much as his moves do.
Career Highlights
Across years of blitz and bullet battles, Kirra85 has shown resilience and growth, punctuated by moments of dramatic swings—an early rough spell followed by a breakout stretch. A peak blitz rating around the high 2600s marked a carnival of sharp performances in 2025, underscoring a player who can flip momentum when the position screams for it. His journey is full of stories of stubborn defense turning into triumphant attacks, and occasional jokes about how the clock always seems to run faster than his coffee.
- Peak Blitz rating around 2659 in 2025
- Long streaks of both high-pressure wins and hard-fought losses, reflecting a head-to-head style that loves competition
- Notable consistency in blitz play with a repertoire that thrives on initiative
Opening Repertoire in Blitz
Kirra85 favors sharp, practical lines that test opponents at the earliest moments. In blitz, he has enjoyed frequent success with lively flare in several systems, including:
- Nimzo-Larsen Attack
- Amar Gambit
- Sicilian Defense: Closed and related anti-lines
- Australian Defense and other flexible setups that invite quick, tactical play
- A willingness to mix in offbeat ideas to keep opponents guessing
For a quick look at his opening tendencies, see the profile placeholder below.
For the Curious
If you want a taste of Kirill’s rhythm on the board, you can explore a compact snapshot of his blitz journey with a chart placeholder and a peak-rating note:
- Quick bio link: Kirill Churikov