From breathtaking upsets to jaw-dropping payouts, the 2025 World Series of Poker has already delivered on every front. With events still underway, we’re looking back at the biggest wins, the most controversial headlines, and the standout performances that are shaping one of the most exciting WSOP seasons in years.
🏆 Tournament Highlights & Million-Dollar Paydays
Michael “The Grinder” Mizrachi Makes History
In Event #66, the $50,000 Poker Players Championship, Michael Mizrachi clinched his fourth PPC title, a record-breaking accomplishment that solidifies his place in WSOP lore. Outlasting 107 entries, Mizrachi earned $1,331,322 after a tense final heads-up against Bryn Kenney. Esther Taylor finished third, becoming the deepest-finishing woman in the history of the event.
Seth Davies Dominates Super High Roller
Event #46, the $250,000 Super High Roller, drew 63 elite entries for a massive $15.5 million prize pool. Seth Davies took the top prize, walking away with $4,752,551 in what has become the largest single payout of the series so far.
Dylan Linde Crushes PLO High Roller
In Event #57, the $50,000 High Roller Pot-Limit Omaha, Dylan Linde added a third bracelet to his collection, banking a career-best $2,146,414.
Record-Breaking Turnout in Budget Events
Event #67, the $300 Gladiators of Poker, became the second-largest live tournament ever with 24,629 entries. Ian Pelz took the win and a $420,680 prize.
In Event #1, Mystery Millions, Michael Wilklow won the $1 million top prize from a massive 19,654-player field.
🖖 Top Players & Rising Stars
| Player | Bracelets Won This Year | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Michael Mizrachi | 1 | Fourth PPC title, 7 bracelets total |
| Benny Glaser | 3 | Dominated Mixed Games & Dealer’s Choice |
| Shiina Okamoto | 2 | Back-to-back wins including Ladies Championship |
| Seth Davies | 1 | Massive $4.75M win in Super High Roller |
⚠️ Controversy at the Tables
Millionaire Maker Title Vacated
One of the most shocking developments came from Event #53, the $1,500 Millionaire Maker. Jesse Yaginuma initially claimed victory, with James Carroll as runner-up. But after a collusion investigation, the WSOP vacated both results. Neither player received a bracelet, and the final payout was reassigned. The scandal has sparked renewed debate over integrity and enforcement in live poker.
Phil Hellmuth Sits Out the Main
For the first time since 1988, Phil Hellmuth has opted out of the Main Event, citing issues with the current structure. His absence will be felt deeply across the poker community, as fans and players alike reflect on the potential passing of an era.
💸 Biggest Cashes of the Series (So Far)
Seth Davies – $4,752,551 (Super High Roller)
Dylan Linde – $2,146,414 (High Roller PLO)
Michael Mizrachi – $1,331,322 (PPC)
Michael Wilklow – $1,000,000 (Mystery Millions)
Ian Pelz – $420,680 (Gladiators of Poker)
🌟 Champion Quotes & Player Reactions
Michael Mizrachi: “Winning this event means everything to me. I always said I play my best when the pressure is highest, and this one felt like destiny.”
Esther Taylor: “I’m incredibly proud to be the deepest-running woman in PPC history. We’re making progress, and I’m not done yet.”
Seth Davies: “It’s surreal. You dream about these moments when you start in poker, but nothing prepares you for the feeling of a seven-figure win.”
Benny Glaser: “Mixed games are my passion, and I’m grateful to show what consistency in those formats can do.”
📅 Looking Ahead: The Main Event
Kicking off July 2, the $10,000 WSOP Main Event will run through July 16 and is expected to draw thousands of players from across the globe. With massive fields, shifting storylines, and millions on the line, it promises to be the crown jewel of an already explosive summer.
Stay tuned for more coverage as we find out who will become poker’s next world champion.