Alexander Velikanov IM

Alexander Velikanov - International Master Extraordinaire

Welcome to the enigmatic world of Alexander Velikanov, a chess prodigy who proudly holds the title of International Master granted by FIDE. Known online as LikeWater, Alexander combines the fluidity of water with the precision of a grandmaster’s blade — a fitting metaphor for a player whose rating waves have dazzled the chess community for years.

Rise Through the Ranks

Starting with a blitz rating hovering near 2050 back in 2014, Alexander quickly transformed from a promising amateur into a force to be reckoned with. By 2024, LikeWater reached a peak blitz rating of 2857, and an even more impressive bullet peak of 3020, demonstrating lightning-fast tactical prowess that can drain the time from opponents’ clocks like a mischievous wizard.

But don't be fooled; Alexander isn't merely a speed demon. His rapid peak rating soared to 2442 in early 2025, and his persistent love for daily chess garnered a solid 1976 peak — because mastering everyday battles is just as important as blitzing grandmasters.

Playing Style and Strengths

Alexander is not one to give up easily — his comeback rate stands at a jaw-dropping 86.9%, meaning when the chips are down and a piece is lost, you can trust LikeWater to surge back with waves of creativity and tenacity. The player favors long battles with an average of 85 moves per win, showing an appetite for deep strategic play, and a love of endgames that would make even the greatest theoreticians nod in approval.

Early resignation? A mere 1.03% rate, indicating that Alexander fights until the very end — unless, of course, it’s a contest of patience with the coffee machine.

Opening Arsenal

Ever the versatile strategist, Alexander showcases expertise in many opening systems. His top-secret opening shines in both blitz and bullet, but he’s particularly fond of the Alapin Sicilian and King’s Indian Defense Fianchetto Debrecen Classical Main Line, boasting win rates up to 85.7%. However, not all lines go his way; the King’s Indian Defense Normal Variation offers a humbling challenge with a modest win rate of just 16.67% in blitz.

Recent Battles

Just recently, Alexander secured a remarkable victory against "DinamicosKing" by resignation, showcasing strategic mastery in the Modern Defense. The final throes of the game emphasized his prowess in endgame technique, pushing relentlessly until his opponent threw in the towel.

Of course, even mighty warriors taste defeat. Against "AllCer7", Alexander suffered a narrow time loss in a tense Queens-Indian Defense battle, proving that even the best have off days — or perhaps just ran out of coffee.

Fun Facts & Quirks

• Nickname: LikeWater — because just like the element, Alexander adapts, flows, and occasionally evaporates before your eyes.
• Longest Winning Streak: 26 games — a testament to his unstoppable form when the stars align.
• Longest Losing Streak: 23 games — reminding us all that even titans stumble, but real champions keep their cool.
• Favorite Playing Time: 3 PM — peak performance hour, or just when afternoon snacks are best enjoyed?
• Tilt Factor: 23 — which means Alexander occasionally lets the grill heat up with frustration but quickly cools it off with grace.

Summary

In sum, Alexander Velikanov is a formidable International Master whose blend of tactical wizardry, thorough endgame knowledge, and relentless fighting spirit keep opponents guessing and spectators entertained. Whether blitzing or battling in a marathon game, LikeWater proves time and time again that true mastery flows from resilience, passion, and a pinch of cheeky brilliance.

Keep an eye on this name — the tides are always shifting in favor of Alexander Velikanov!