He was linked to the Nushibi faction and was son of El Kulug Shad.
In 642, he overthrew Yukuk Shad (r. 638–642) with support from the expanding Tang dynasty Chinese.
Although Yukuk Shad was still active and controlling a part of the territory, Irbis Shekui had the support of Nushibi (western) tribes.
During the early years of his reign the rivalry between the Nushibi and Dulu factions cooled off.
In 651 he was overthrown by Ashina Helu who was supported by the Dulu faction and Tang China now.