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Category: Poker

  • Nick Schulman Secures Sixth World Series of Poker Bracelet in Thrilling Victory

    Nick Schulman Secures Sixth World Series of Poker Bracelet in Thrilling Victory

    Nick Schulman has once again etched his name into poker history, claiming his sixth World Series of Poker (WSOP) bracelet at the 2024 WSOP Paradise event. The 40-year-old poker professional from New York triumphed in the $5,000 no-limit hold’em turbo bounty event, known as ‘The Closer,’ securing a prize of $145,000 along with the prestigious bracelet. With this victory, Schulman joins an elite group of just 25 players in the history of the WSOP to have earned six bracelets.

    A Long-Awaited Sixth Bracelet

    For Schulman, this win marks a significant achievement in his career. The New York native, who has made a name for himself in high-stakes poker, already had five bracelets under his belt before this event. His previous victories include triumphs in a variety of poker disciplines, starting with the $10,000 no-limit hold’em deuce-to-seven single draw lowball championships in 2009 and 2012. Later, in 2019, he added another bracelet by winning the $10,000 pot-limit Omaha eight-or-better championship. His most recent win prior to this one came in 2023 when he secured his fourth bracelet in a $1,500 stud event.

    This sixth bracelet has a special significance, not just for the cash prize, but for what it means in terms of his status in the world of professional poker. It represents the culmination of years of skill, strategy, and perseverance. As Schulman continues to dominate the poker scene, his legacy as one of the game’s all-time greats continues to solidify.

    Schulman’s Remarkable Career Earnings

    With this win, Schulman has now surpassed a staggering $21.6 million in career tournament earnings. His consistent performance over the years has been a testament to his expertise and resilience in the ever-competitive poker world. Despite the growing number of players and the evolving strategies, Schulman has proven time and again that he belongs at the top.

    This victory also positions Schulman within the top 31 of the 2024 Card Player Player of the Year standings, a notable achievement given the quality of competition in the tournament circuit. His three titles and 10 Player of the Year-qualified final tables this year reflect his continued dominance and consistency on the poker scene.

    A Deep Field of Talented Competitors

    While Schulman’s performance was undoubtedly the highlight of the tournament, he was far from the only elite player in contention. The tournament, which attracted 238 entries, featured a competitive field, with the top 37 players earning a share of the $1,190,000 prize pool. Among those who made deep runs were several other decorated WSOP champions.

    Three-time bracelet winner Daniel Zack finished in 19th place, while four-time bracelet winner Georgios Sotiropoulos claimed 14th. 2019 WSOP main event champion Hossein Ensan made it to 12th, and Ebony Kenney finished in 10th. High-stakes regular Sosia Jiang and 2023 WSOP Paradise $25,000 high roller champion Samuel Muller also made impressive runs, finishing in 9th and 7th, respectively. The caliber of competition highlighted just how difficult it was to secure the win in this event.

    The fast-paced nature of the turbo bounty event added an extra layer of excitement, as players were not only battling for the top prize but also contending with the dynamic structure of the game. The bounty aspect of the event made each elimination significant, and the stakes only increased as the tournament progressed toward its final stages.

    The Significance of ‘The Closer’ Tournament

    The WSOP Paradise $5,000 no-limit hold’em turbo bounty event, often referred to as ‘The Closer,’ is one of the most anticipated tournaments of the series. Known for its fast-paced structure, the event always attracts a large and talented field of players, making it a coveted title for anyone looking to make a name for themselves. The high-energy format, combined with the added pressure of the bounty, creates a unique experience for both players and spectators.

    For Schulman, the victory in this event capped off an already successful year. It’s a testament to his adaptability and skill, as he continues to navigate various formats and prove that he can compete and win across different poker disciplines. His performance in this year’s WSOP Paradise event serves as a reminder of his versatility and commitment to excellence.

  • Travis Egbert Clinches 2024 World Poker Tour World Championship High Roller Title

    Travis Egbert Clinches 2024 World Poker Tour World Championship High Roller Title

    In a stunning breakthrough moment for Northern California’s Travis Egbert, the poker pro sealed his biggest victory to date by winning the 2024 World Poker Tour World Championship Alpha8 $25,800 no-limit hold’em high roller at Wynn Las Vegas. The December 19 win earned Egbert a career-high payout of $684,684, a feat that caps off a banner year for the player, who has seen a dramatic rise in the poker scene.

    Egbert, who began 2024 with just shy of $263,000 in lifetime tournament earnings, has now surged past $1.3 million in total winnings. With four titles under his belt and eight final-table finishes this year alone, his victory at the prestigious WPT event marks a pivotal milestone in his poker career.

    An Unlikely Champion Emerges

    The high roller event drew a competitive field of 111 entries, creating a prize pool of $2,775,000 that was split amongst the top 13 finishers. For Egbert, this victory was more than just financial; it was symbolic of his rapid rise in the poker community. Until now, Egbert’s victories had mostly been confined to the local Thunder Valley Casino Resort in Sacramento, where he captured three World Series of Poker Circuit rings in 2024. But on December 19, Egbert made his mark in the global poker scene, securing a major win outside of his usual stomping grounds.

    What made Egbert’s victory even more impressive was the field he overcame. Among the notable players who fell short of the final table were six-time bracelet winner Brian Rast, two-time bracelet winner Shannon Shorr, and high-stakes regular Sean Winter. The competition was fierce, but Egbert’s play stood out as he navigated his way through tough opponents to secure the top prize.

    A Thrilling Three-Handed Finish

    As the final table narrowed down to three players, Egbert found himself holding a commanding lead. He won a massive pot with sixes full of sevens, propelling him into a strong position. His dominance continued when he took down another hefty pot with trip nines, which left Noel Rodriguez with a short stack.

    Rodriguez was eliminated in third place after his A-8 was outplayed by the J-9 suited of Najeem Ajez, who flopped a jack and held on to secure the pot. Rodriguez walked away with $354,488 for his efforts, while Ajez’s momentum carried him to heads-up play against Egbert for the top spot.

    In the heads-up battle, the two players agreed to a deal, locking up $600,000 each while leaving $84,684 and the trophy to play for. It was a strategic move that set the stage for an intense final hand. Egbert, holding A♠A♥, raised to 250,000 on the button, and Ajez, with J♦6♣, called. The flop came Q♣J♦6♥, giving Ajez a pair of jacks, but Egbert still had the upper hand with an overpair.

    The turn brought the 5♥, and Ajez led out with a bet of 1,275,000. Egbert called, maintaining his strong position. When the A♣ hit the river, completing a set of aces for Egbert, Ajez checked. Egbert seized the opportunity and moved all-in, forcing Ajez to think hard about his decision. After some deliberation, Ajez called, but Egbert’s rivered set was too much, and Ajez was eliminated in second place, taking home $600,000.

    Final Table Payouts and Points

    Egbert’s impressive win wasn’t just about the money. He also earned 840 Player of the Year (POY) points, propelling him into the 86th spot on the Global Poker POY standings. The payout structure of the final table is as follows:

    Place Player Earnings POY Points
    1 Travis Egbert $684,684 840
    2 Najeem Ajez $600,000 700
    3 Noel Rodriguez $345,488 560
    4 Sam Soverel $253,219 420
    5 Brock Wilson $190,781 350
    6 Jun Obara $145,688 280
    7 Sean Winter $115,856 210
    8 Igor Kurganov $94,350 140
    9 Shannon Shorr $79,088 70

    With the victory at the World Poker Tour World Championship Alpha8, Egbert’s profile has risen dramatically, and his performances throughout 2024 signal that this may be just the beginning of what looks like a bright future in poker.

  • Kristen Foxen Defeats Andrew Robl in Thrilling $500,000 Showdown

    Kristen Foxen Defeats Andrew Robl in Thrilling $500,000 Showdown

    In a nail-biting finale on the latest episode of PokerGO’s No Gamble No Future, Kristen Foxen outshone Andrew Robl in a high-stakes battle that not only determined the winner of the $500,000 pot but also earned Foxen a massive $200,000 bonus for the biggest profit of the three-episode stretch. The dramatic final hand left poker fans on the edge of their seats as fortune swung dramatically in the final moments.

    The Road to the Final Hand: Foxen vs. Robl

    It all came down to the final hand in a game where every move was crucial. The blinds were set at $500/$1,000 with a $1,000 big blind ante, and the tension was palpable. With Mike Volfson straddling for $2,000, Andrew Robl, sitting with a $270,000 stack, made a bold raise to $6,000 without initially looking at his cards. At this point, Foxen, with $247,000 in her stack, decided to bring the heat, three-betting to $18,000 with A♠ K♣, a hand she was clearly confident in.

    The other players at the table quickly folded, and Robl, now realizing the gravity of the situation, took a moment to inspect his cards before asking for Foxen’s remaining chip count. The title of Cash of the Titans was on the line, with $200,000 in bonus money for the player with the largest profit over the three episodes. Robl, realizing his hand was likely not strong enough to let Foxen walk away with the chips, made the decisive move and went all-in.

    Foxen, without hesitation, called the all-in, setting the stage for a $497,500 pot. With the stakes so high, poker fans knew the final outcome was going to be nothing short of dramatic.

    The Odds: Foxen Favoured But Not Guaranteed

    At this stage, the odds were clearly stacked in Foxen’s favour. According to the Card Player Poker Odds Calculator, Foxen had a 68% chance of winning the hand, while Robl was sitting at just a 27% chance. The remaining 5% was split between the possibility of a chopped pot. However, as any poker player knows, even the best odds aren’t a guarantee, and Robl still had a chance to pull off an upset.

    As Foxen and Robl stared down the board, the excitement was palpable. Robl, a seasoned professional, couldn’t help but express his thoughts on the situation, acknowledging just how deep into the hand he was without any solid leverage. “Just for the record, I wanted to gamble,” Robl quipped, clearly resigned to the outcome as Foxen prepared to go for the win.

    A Roller Coaster Flop: No Chopped Pot for Robl

    With the cards revealed, the flop came down as J♦ 7♥ 2♣. This left Foxen firmly in control of the hand with an 80% chance of taking it all. The turn brought the 6♥, which meant there would be no chance of a chopped pot. Robl now needed one of just three outs—remaining hearts that could keep him alive.

    Poker fans were left hanging on every moment, hoping for a miracle from Robl. But it wasn’t to be. The river card dropped, and it was the 5♥—sealing Robl’s fate. Not only did the river card hand Foxen the massive pot, but it also earned her the title and the $200,000 bonus that came with it.

    Foxen, who had appeared calm and collected up until that moment, couldn’t hide her excitement as she realized the magnitude of the win. She looked both thrilled and slightly shocked, as the last-minute events unfolded. The intensity of the moment was clear, and her victory seemed all the more sweet given the final turn of events.

    The Aftermath: Robl’s Resignation and Foxen’s Triumph

    As the chips were counted and the result became final, it was clear that Foxen had earned the $500,000 pot and the additional bonus. Robl, despite his best efforts, had to watch as the title slipped through his fingers. But poker is a game of highs and lows, and Robl, ever the professional, took the loss in stride.

    “I’ve been in these situations before,” Robl said after the hand, acknowledging the unpredictable nature of poker. “It’s all part of the game.”

    Foxen, meanwhile, was left reflecting on what had been an incredibly intense and dramatic finish. The PokerGO cameras captured her excitement, as she held up the giant stack of chips and celebrated her big win. It was a fitting conclusion to a thrilling episode that will no doubt go down in poker history.

  • Paris Gaming Clubs Face Closure Amid Legislative Stalemate

    Paris Gaming Clubs Face Closure Amid Legislative Stalemate

    Legislative gridlock threatens the future of Paris’s gaming clubs, potentially leaving 1,500 jobs in jeopardy and major poker events hanging in the balance.

    Paris’s renowned “Clubs de Jeux” are on the brink of closure, with a December 31 deadline fast approaching and no solution in sight. These clubs, which operate under an experimental framework designed to replace the city’s banned casinos, now face an uncertain future due to a prolonged legislative delay.

    The cause of this looming shutdown? The French National Assembly dissolved earlier this year, leading to the collapse of key government processes. Efforts to extend the clubs’ legal status have stalled, leaving the gaming establishments without a legal framework to operate beyond the end of the year. This has thrown the future of 1,500 jobs into doubt, while simultaneously threatening the city’s international gaming events, such as the European Championship of Poker and the PokerStars European Poker Tour Paris.

    A High-Stakes Problem: The Impact of the Shutdown

    The Paris gaming clubs have become a significant contributor to the city’s economy. In 2023 alone, they generated €119 million ($124.97 million) in gross gaming revenue, a sizable portion of which—approximately €40 million—was redirected to the state. These figures paint a clear picture: the clubs are not just a source of entertainment, but a substantial economic engine for the capital.

    “Without the clubs, it’s a social and economic catastrophe,” said Christine Bonneau, managing director of Club Barrière. “It’s mentally draining for the teams. We are completely in the dark about what will happen next.”

    This sense of uncertainty is amplified by the sheer scale of the shutdown. Not only would 1,500 employees lose their jobs, but major international poker tournaments—events that draw global crowds—are at risk of being canceled. Paris, a city already renowned for its hospitality and gaming culture, may lose its position as a top destination for high-profile poker competitions.

    The Root Cause: Political Deadlock

    The shutdown’s root cause lies in the unresolved legislative stalemate within the French government. In June, the French National Assembly dissolved, and with it, the Finance Bill that was supposed to extend the clubs’ operational phase. Without this extension, the gaming clubs have no legal standing to continue beyond the end of the year.

    In the absence of a functioning government, talks about the future of the gaming clubs remain in limbo. Despite efforts to push a special law through Parliament to address the 2025 budget, the bill does not contain provisions to save the gaming clubs, leaving operators and employees on edge.

    “If we cannot operate in 2025, it could take four to six months before the clubs are allowed to reopen,” one industry insider explained. This prolonged downtime would be devastating for the entire sector, further amplifying the financial and social implications of the shutdown.

    Failed Proposals and Growing Concern

    Efforts to secure a new legislative framework for the gaming clubs have met with frustration. The issue became further complicated when proposals to legalize online casinos—also part of the stalled Finance Bill—were abandoned. This setback has left stakeholders questioning the likelihood of any meaningful progress before the year’s end.

    Industry professionals argue that the clubs’ closure would not only put thousands out of work but could also push gambling underground. Such an outcome could result in significant tax revenue losses for the government, with the potential rise of unregulated gambling operations posing a further risk to public safety and the integrity of the sector.

    The situation has also sparked concern among professional unions and club operators. “We are at a crossroads. We need to know if we are forced to close and whether employees can access technical unemployment or partial activity,” said Sébastien Leclercq, Country Manager for Circus Casino in France, speaking on the Dans le Carré talk show. “It’s complicated because we no longer have a law to rely on, and there’s no money in the coffers.”

    The Closer Look: What Happens Next?

    Despite the dire circumstances, many remain hopeful that the French government will act swiftly to resolve the issue. However, the ongoing political paralysis makes a quick resolution unlikely. As of now, both industry leaders and employees are left in a state of limbo, unsure of whether they will return to work in January or face a prolonged shutdown.

    There is still a glimmer of hope that a new law could emerge to save the clubs, but with each passing day, that hope seems to diminish. The gaming industry is calling for decisive action from lawmakers, but whether or not that will materialize in time to prevent the shutdown is uncertain.

    The outcome of this battle will have long-lasting implications not only for the clubs but also for the wider French gaming sector. If the clubs are forced to shut down, the government may face the task of rebuilding a legal framework from the ground up—a process that could take years. In the meantime, Paris’s gaming culture, and the thousands of people who rely on it, are left waiting for the political climate to shift.

  • BetMGM Ignites Borgata Winter Poker Open 2025 with $5 Million in Guarantees

    BetMGM Ignites Borgata Winter Poker Open 2025 with $5 Million in Guarantees

    The Borgata Winter Poker Open (BWPO) is gearing up for an electrifying start to 2025, with BetMGM stepping in as the powerhouse behind the scenes. With a staggering $5 million in guarantees and an ambitious lineup of 32 main events, this year’s tournament promises a mix of online and live poker action, setting a new standard for competitive play. The event runs from January 2 to 16, and excitement is already building among poker enthusiasts.

    A Modern Touch: Seamless Online Registration

    For the first time, players can register for events through the BetMGM Poker app on the same day as their chosen tournament. This innovation offers unmatched convenience, making it easier than ever to secure a seat. Online qualifiers, which kicked off on December 3, have buy-ins starting as low as $2, opening the door for players of all budgets to take a shot at the big leagues.

    It’s clear that BetMGM is leaning into technology to enhance the player experience, reflecting the broader digital trends in gaming.

    Must-See Events to Watch

    The BWPO schedule is packed with standout events that cater to both seasoned players and newcomers. Here are some of the highlights:

    • $100,000 BetMGM Online Hybrid Championship (January 5–9): The tournament begins online and concludes with a live final table at the Borgata, combining the best of both worlds.
    • BetMGM Championship Chase (January 9): At least 15 players will win coveted seats to the BWPO Championship and gain entry into the BetMGM Bounty Shootout, adding extra intrigue to the competition.
    • BetMGM Bounty Shootout (January 10): This live-streamed event is set to capture the attention of poker fans everywhere, showcasing thrilling gameplay.

    BetMGM will also host 11 live-streamed events, including the “Big League Live Stream,” a single-table tournament featuring Major League Baseball alumni and the hosts of the BetMGM-affiliated show Foul Territory.

    Bigger Pools, Bigger Stakes

    The BWPO comes on the heels of a pivotal moment for BetMGM Poker. In November 2024, the platform merged its player pools in New Jersey and Michigan, creating a larger and more dynamic online poker community. This expanded pool not only increases competition but also provides players with more opportunities to win big.

    “The Borgata Winter Poker Open provides the perfect opportunity for BetMGM to carry our 2024 momentum into the new year,” said Angus Nisbet, VP of Gaming at BetMGM. He highlighted how the merger of player pools has positioned the platform to deliver a high-quality experience to both online and live players.

    Beyond the Cards: Rewards and Streaming

    BetMGM isn’t just about the poker. Players participating in the BWPO can earn BetMGM Rewards Points, which can be redeemed for digital bonuses, MGM Rewards, and Marriott Bonvoy Points. It’s an added perk that ties the gaming experience to broader benefits, from hotel stays to exclusive events.

    For fans unable to attend the tournament in person, BetMGM’s YouTube channel will stream select events live, ensuring that the action reaches a global audience. Regular updates will also be shared on Poker.Org, keeping followers in the loop every step of the way.

    What Players Need to Know

    If you’re planning to participate or follow the BWPO, here are the essentials:

    Key Details Information
    Event Dates January 2–16, 2025
    Total Guarantees $5 million
    Online Registration Available same-day via BetMGM Poker app
    Highlighted Events BetMGM Online Hybrid Championship, Bounty Shootout, Championship Chase
    Live Streams 11 events, including “Big League Live Stream”
    Online Qualifiers Start Date December 3, 2024
    Rewards BetMGM Rewards Points, MGM Rewards, Marriott Bonvoy Points

    With its impressive prize pool, innovative features, and a packed schedule, the Borgata Winter Poker Open promises to be a poker event like no other. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just tuning in for the thrill of the game, 2025’s BWPO, powered by BetMGM, is not to be missed.

  • Mexico Grapples with Gambling Laws: Prohibition vs. Legislative Reform

    Mexico Grapples with Gambling Laws: Prohibition vs. Legislative Reform

    As Mexico’s gaming sector teeters on uncertainty, the new administration faces mounting pressure to overhaul outdated gambling laws and curb corruption within the industry.

    The gaming industry in Mexico is at a pivotal moment. With a new government in place, hopes are high for much-needed regulatory changes, but challenges remain.

    Unkept Promises and Lingering Hopes

    For months, industry insiders have awaited meaningful reforms. The previous administration pledged updates to the Federal Law on Gaming and Lotteries, aligning it with modern technological and social standards. However, those promises seem to have fizzled out. President Claudia Sheinbaum, Mexico’s first female leader, has yet to deliver on these commitments, leaving many in the sector feeling abandoned.

    “It’s frustrating,” says Alejandro Torres, a casino owner in Monterrey. “We were promised a new framework, but nothing has changed.”

    Conflicting Statements Stir Uncertainty

    Recently, Congressman Ricardo Monreal hinted at forthcoming legislative action. “The President or the new Secretary of the Interior will introduce a new gaming law soon,” he declared. This sparked optimism across the board. But days later, President Sheinbaum contradicted the statement, saying no new law is on the horizon yet.

    “There’s no new law at this moment,” Sheinbaum stated. “We’re focusing on eliminating corruption by working closely with casino owners.”

    This flip-flop has left many questioning the government’s true intentions. Are they serious about reform, or is this just political posturing?

    Economic Stakes: What’s at Risk?

    The gaming sector isn’t just about casinos and entertainment. It’s a significant economic driver, contributing billions in taxes and supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs. Without proper regulation, the industry risks spiraling into chaos.

    • Revenue Growth: Expected to rise by 8% in 2025.
    • Tax Contributions: Billions of pesos rely on a stable gaming framework.
    • Employment: Hundreds of thousands depend on the industry for their livelihoods.

    Without updated laws, these economic benefits are at risk. The current lack of regulation fosters an environment ripe for corruption and inefficiency, which could cripple the sector’s growth and sustainability.

    Technical Hurdles: Outdated Systems Hold Back Progress

    One of the pressing issues is the management of gaming machines. Only establishments authorized by SEGOB can legally operate these machines, but the process is bogged down by outdated software and incomplete data.

    Issue Impact
    Outdated Software Limits accessibility and data reliability
    Incomplete Licensing Data Creates loopholes for unauthorized operations
    Lack of Real-Time Updates Hinders effective monitoring and regulation

    These technical shortcomings make it difficult to ensure transparency and efficiency, further complicating the path to reform.

    Voices from the Ground: Industry’s Call for Action

    Maria de Lourdes Ramirez Garcia, the new General Director of Gaming and Sweepstakes, is under immense pressure to address these issues. “We need swift and decisive action to update our systems and close the gaps that allow corruption to thrive,” she emphasized in a recent interview.

    Supporters argue that with the right leadership, Mexico can set a new standard for gaming regulation in the region. However, skeptics remain wary, pointing to the administration’s mixed messages and the slow pace of progress.

    Looking Ahead: Can the New Administration Deliver?

    The coming months are critical. If Secretary Rodriguez and her team can implement effective reforms, Mexico’s gaming industry could see a resurgence. On the flip side, continued delays and indecision could lead to missed economic opportunities and further entrench corruption.

    “What we need is clear, transparent legislation that protects both the industry and the public,” says Andrea Avedillo, one of the attorneys analyzing the situation. “Without it, we’re stuck in a cycle of uncertainty and inefficiency.”