How Ankit Shukla Became the Backbone of Orangutan BGMI
The Reliable Spearhead
In the high-stakes arena of Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI), where rosters change as frequently as the weather, one partnership has stood the test of time: Ankit “AKop” Shukla and Orangutan (OG). Known for his calm demeanor and explosive fragging ability, AKop has earned his reputation as one of the most feared assaulters in the country.
While some players rely on flashy individual plays that result in “clips” but no points, AKop is the definition of a “System Player”—an athlete who elevates his entire team’s performance through consistent damage and elite game sense. As a core member of the “Apes” (Orangutan fans), his journey from a rising talent to a veteran of the scene is nothing short of legendary.
Professional Profile: The Man Behind the ID
Ankit Shukla, known in-game as AKop (or often just AK), is widely considered the soul of the Orangutan BGMI lineup.
Real Name: Ankit Shukla
Current Team: Orangutan (OG)
Role: Main Assaulter / Clutch Specialist
Signature Weapon: AKM / M416 + 6x Spray
Playstyle: Calculated Aggression
AKop’s role as an Assaulter is specialized. He isn’t just an entry fragger; he is the “closer”—the player who ensures that once a fight starts, his team finishes it. His ability to track multiple enemies during a chaotic 4v4 brawl is what sets him apart from the average pro.
Championship : Tournament History & Achievements
AKop’s trophy cabinet is filled with podium finishes in some of the most grueling tournaments in Indian eSports history. His ability to perform on the “LAN” stage (Local Area Network) is what truly defines his greatness.
1. The BGMI Masters Series (BGMS) Dominance
The BGMS is arguably India’s biggest eSports stage, televised nationally. AKop has consistently been a top performer here:
Runner-Up (2nd Place): BGMS Season 2 (2023) – Representing Orangutan, AKop was a force of nature, leading his team to a near-victory in one of the most competitive finals ever held.
3rd Place: BGMS Season 1 (2022) – AKop’s debut on the big screen showed that he belonged among the elite, helping OG secure a podium finish.
2. Major Wins and Top Tier Placements
Beyond the Masters Series, AKop has a long list of victories:
Winner (1st Place): Upthrust Esports – The Patriot Cup (2024) – A showcase of tactical dominance where OG outclassed the top 16 teams in India.
Winner (1st Place): Upthrust Esports Pro Showdown Season 2 (2023).
Winner (1st Place): Novum Esports Overpower Series Season 1.
5th Place: ESL Snapdragon Pro Series (2024) – Competing against the best international-level talent in India, AKop proved his consistency remains unshaken.
Individual Awards:
Finals MVP/Top Fragger Contender: AKop consistently ranks in the top 10 for total finishes in every major tournament he enters. He is often recognized for his “Survival Time,” proving he is a difficult player to knock out of the game.
Impact on BGMI eSports: The “Orangutan” Legacy
AKop’s impact isn’t just measured in trophies; it’s measured in loyalty and stability.
The Longest-Standing Core
In a scene where “roster mania” is common, AKop has remained the face of Orangutan for years. This loyalty has built a massive, dedicated fanbase that views him as the standard-bearer for the organization. He has helped define the “Orangutan style” of play: aggressive, disciplined, and remarkably resilient.
The “Clutch” Factor
If you ask any IGL (In-Game Leader) which player they would least like to face in a 1v1, AKop’s name is always near the top. His movement—specifically his use of “jiggles” and “crouch-spamming”—is studied by thousands of aspiring players. He has modernized the close-quarter combat (CQC) meta in India, moving away from “spray and pray” to high-precision headshots.
Social Media Presence & Digital Influence
AKop understands the power of the “Gaming Lifestyle.” He isn’t just a player; he is a brand.
YouTube (AKop): With nearly 100K subscribers, his channel is a mix of high-intensity tournament highlights (POVs) and daily life vlogs. He provides a rare look into the mental grind of a pro athlete.
Instagram (@akopbgmi): His Instagram is a hub for the community, where he shares bootcamp moments, travel diaries, and collaborations with other S8UL and OG creators.
Engagement: Known for his humble nature, AKop frequently interacts with fans during live streams, answering questions about his sensitivity settings, four-finger claw layout, and how to handle tournament pressure.
Player Goals: The Path to Global Glory
What does the future hold for Ankit Shukla? Having conquered the domestic circuit, his eyes are set on the world.
International Stage: AKop’s primary goal is to represent India at the PMGC (PUBG Mobile Global Championship). He believes that the Orangutan roster has the synergy needed to compete with teams from China and Thailand.
Mentorship: As one of the “older” pros in terms of experience, AKop is increasingly taking on a mentorship role within the OG camp, helping younger talents manage the fame and pressure of the eSports world.
The Ultimate Trophy: While he has many “2nd” and “3rd” place finishes in official majors, his ultimate dream remains hoisting the BGIS (Battlegrounds Mobile India Series) trophy.
The Silent Sniper of OG
Ankit “AKop” Shukla is the perfect embodiment of what a professional eSports athlete should be. He is disciplined, loyal to his organization, and consistently deadly on the battlefield. Whether you call him OGxAKop or the “Backbone of the Apes,” there is no denying that the history of BGMI eSports cannot be written without his name.