Nonfungible token (NFT) entrepreneur Wylie Aronow, co-founder of Yuga Labs, has officially stated that he is not prepared to resume work at the NFT firm, despite showing "steady progress" in his health.
Aronow clarified his stance on 11 December, addressing rumours about a potential return and emphasising the need to prioritise his well-being.
He stated,
"I'm not ready to come back to even part-time work. I have to ensure I'm around for a long time, for those who need me."
He dismissed rumours at the time, asserting that Yuga Labs did not use neo-Nazi and racist imagery and referred to such claims as "lies."
While stepping back, Aronow maintained his role as a board member and strategic adviser at Yuga Labs.
Despite grappling with health challenges, Aronow revealed that he has been overseeing Yuga Labs' operations during his absence.
The team is behind renowned NFT projects like Bored Ape Yacht Club (BAYC) and CryptoPunks.
Aronow mentioned having the opportunity to identify key issues and propose changes during recent board meetings.
Acknowledging the unpredictable nature of his health, Aronow described the situation as a marathon, expressing readiness on some days and physical vulnerability on others.
He revealed,
"I have to ensure I'm around for a long time, for those who need me."
Despite stepping back, Aronow expressed confidence in the current leadership of Yuga Labs and its brands.
He affirmed,
"I left that meeting with a feeling of restored confidence in our leaders and across all the Yuga brands. They know the pressure is on for 2024, and I think they are going to impress you."
Aronow's departure from active involvement in Yuga Labs occurred around the same time as the announcement of Daniel Alegre, the former president and chief operating officer of Activision Blizzard, as the new CEO of the firm.
Aronow co-founded Yuga Labs in February 2021 alongside Greg Solano, Zeshan Ali, and Kerem Atalay.
The firm's portfolio boasts several standout NFT projects, including the widely acclaimed Bored Ape Yacht Club (BAYC) and the iconic CryptoPunks.
These projects have garnered attention within the crypto community, establishing Yuga Labs as a key player in the NFT space.
Notable NFTs developed by the company include CryptoPunks, Bored Ape Yacht Club, MeeBits, and Othersidemeta.