Mikhael Garakov - The International Master Known as Mikedannnn
Meet Mikhael Garakov, a cunning strategist on 64 squares and an official International Master according to FIDE. If you ever stumble upon the username Mikedannnn in a blitz or bullet game, prepare yourself for a tough fight full of twists, tactics, and time scrambles!
Rating and Performance
Over the years, Mikhael has climbed the rating ladder with a peak blitz rating soaring to a remarkable 2740 in October 2024, and an equally impressive bullet peak of 2816 reached back in December 2019. Their prowess at lightning-fast games is not just about speed but sharp tactical acumen, boasting an impressive tactical comeback rate of over 87%—clearly, giving up is not in their dictionary.
Playing Style
Known for an endgame frequency of 84.38%, Mikhael likes to grind opponents down patiently and is not too quick to quit, with an early resignation rate as low as 0.36%. Their games typically stretch close to 75 moves on average, showing endurance and deep strategic understanding. Mikhael tends to score slightly better when playing with the white pieces (~47% wins) compared to black (~43% wins), proving adept at both sides of the board.
Opening Choices and Stats
While Mikhael keeps some of their lines top secret (with nearly 6000 blitz games labeled simply as "Top Secret"), a few known favorites include the Modern Defense - Pterodactyl Central Benoni Variation and the Caro-Kann Panov Attack, where Mikhael enjoys success. They're also quite daring with the English Opening Symmetrical Hedgehog Flexible Formation, showcasing versatility beyond classic theories.
Recent Battles
Playing online as Mikedannnn, Mikhael is known for thrilling finishes. Their latest wins include a neat checkmate victory in the Caro-Kann Panov Attack and a time win in a tense Modern Defense battle. Of course, even greats lose, but Mikhael bounces back quickly, with losses mostly by tight margins or on time, reminding us that in blitz chess, the clock is as much an opponent as the pieces.
Fun Facts
- Longest winning streak: 11 games — that's almost two full tournaments worth of steamrolling opponents!
- Known tilt factor: 10 — yes, even this IM can get salty, but it’s all part of the game.
- Favorite time to play: Early morning at 3 AM, when the chessboard is quiet, and the mind is sharp.
- Most played opponent: koksik_13 with 121 encounters — rivalry or just destined pairings?
In a Nutshell
Mikhael Garakov is a chess journeyman who mixes classical endurance with lightning-fast tactical wizardry. Whether grinding down opponents deep into the endgame or winning on time seconds left on the clock, Mikedannnn is a name that commands respect and keeps chess fans on the edge of their seats. So, next time you face them online, remember: the clock is ticking, the pieces are moving… and Mikhael is plotting their next winning trick!