Breaking News: Yuga Labs Founder Steps Down for Health Reasons

NFT Entrepreneur and Yuga Labs founder Wylie Aronow, creator of Bored Ape Yacht Club and CryptoPunks, Takes Time Off for Health after CHF Diagnosis.

Yuga Labs Founder Steps Down 

Wylie Aronow, one of the co-founders of Yuga Labs, recently announced that he will be taking a leave of absence from the company due to health reasons. In a tweet, he shared that he had been diagnosed with congestive heart failure. Aronow, who is also known by his pseudonym Gordon Goner, stated that the symptoms started last year and that he had delayed seeking medical attention so he could continue working. However, after undergoing testing, his doctor advised him to make significant changes to his lifestyle.

Aronow announced his departure from his role at Yuga Labs to focus on his health. In a statement, he stated that he would be taking a leave of absence to prioritize his well-being. Although he will no longer have a full-time position at the company, Aronow will continue to serve as a Board Member and Strategic Advisor, though the extent of his involvement in these capacities was not specified.

https://twitter.com/GordonGoner/status/1619372809352007682?s=20&t=pLN_WMHf2wtuxFfzhYLEQQ

In a tweet, Aronow explained his departure. He stated that his chronic illness consumed most of his twenties and that he overexerted himself at Yuga Labs, working 12 hours daily. He regrets not finding balance, despite advice from those around him. Aronow’s priority now is to seek medical treatment and focus on healing.

Yuga Labs, with Aronow, gained recognition in early 2021. Aronow and co-founders Greg Solano (Gargamel), Zeshan (Sass), and Kerem (Tomato Ketchup) launched the Bored Ape Yacht Club (BAYC) NFT collection on April 23, 2021. The collection became a massive success. Although the NFTs were initially priced at .08 ETH per ape (around $190), they soon sold for over $100,000 on secondary markets.

Wylie remains a board member and advisor at Yuga Labs. In a Twitter thread, he expressed his confidence in Yuga’s future and the leadership of @cryptogarga. The addition of Daniel Alegre, soon-to-be former President and COO of Activision, further strengthens his positive outlook. Wylie also has a bright future ahead for his brand.