My mind is made up: Irina’s elimination on Battle Camp was one of the most painful moments in reality TV. In an exclusive interview with People magazine in April 2025, Irina opened up about her experience on the Netflix show.
“I think it’s truly everyone’s fear — or mine for sure — is thinking that nobody likes you, nobody wants you here,” she shared.
Irina, known for her appearance on Love is Blind, entered Battle Camp hoping for a fresh start. But the reality proved different. She was blindsided by 11 fellow campers who voted her onto the wheel, resulting in her name being placed on the elimination wheel 13 times.
It wasn’t just a game—it was a betrayal that left her feeling misunderstood and excluded. The moment Irina saw her name dominate the wheel spoke volumes: she didn’t stand a chance.
Her elimination wasn’t just a product of bad luck; it reflected how quickly trust can shatter in a competitive setting. In my opinion, Irina’s experience is a reminder that while reality TV may promise connection and fun, the game often thrives on alliances that break as quickly as they form.
Irina deserved more empathy, but Battle Camp thrives on betrayal
The 13 spots on the wheel told the whole story: nearly everyone in Battle Camp had quietly turned against Irina. She had private conversations with Gio Helou and Trey Plutnicki, and both downplayed their votes. Gio stayed vague, while Trey said he was voting for Tony Castellanos or Polly Brindle. In reality, they were part of the majority working to get Irina out.
Irina later admitted she was suspicious when Gabi Butler told her, “I think you’re going to learn a lot from this.” Louis Russell broke down after the elimination, admitting he felt like “a piece of s**t* for going along with it. Gabi also expressed regret, saying she felt awful for betraying Irina after they had been bonding.
Irina’s story proves how Battle Camp thrives on shifting alliances and silent betrayals. It wasn’t just about strategy—it was a painful reminder of how isolating reality TV can feel when you’re the one being targeted. Her elimination shows how quickly things can change in the game, even when you think you’re safe.
Irina’s Battle Camp journey shows how emotional connections get lost in the game
Irina said she didn’t know what she had done wrong.
“Did I really get voted out because I said something? I got misunderstood again?” she said in the interview.
It’s hard for any contestant—trying to play the game while also managing emotions, friendships, and the pressure of being constantly watched. On Battle Camp, it’s not just about winning challenges. You also have to watch what you say, figure out who’s on your side, and keep up with changing alliances. If you misread the room, you can quickly become the target.
What stood out the most was how Irina handled it. Even though she was shocked and hurt, she returned to the wheel ceremony. She didn’t yell or get angry—she stood up, told her team she forgave them, and accepted that she was going home. That took a lot of courage.
In my opinion, Irina’s story shows that Battle Camp isn’t just about the physical tasks—it’s about handling the emotional challenges too. The hardest part of the game is not always the tasks—it’s staying strong when people turn against you and finding a way to keep going even when you feel alone.
Battle Camp episodes are currently streaming on Netflix.