It seems the recent rumors werent that far off from the truth, as it is now officially confirmed that Liquid ixmike88 has dropped from the active roster, but is to remain part of the Team Liquid organisation. ixmike88 stated that his motivation to play competitive Dota has drained out and he needs a break from Dota, though for how long only time can tell. In the mean time he will remain within the Team Liquid organisation in order to fulfil other roles, and work on his other personal projects including IXDL.
via N4G: pc news feed http://n4g.com/news/1359380/dota-2-liquid-ixmike88-retires-from-competitive-play
via N4G: pc news feed http://n4g.com/news/1359380/dota-2-liquid-ixmike88-retires-from-competitive-play