WSOP 2026: Brayden Lou Clinches Massive Freezeout to Claim First Bracelet (Event #25)

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Event #25: $500 Freezeout NLH proved its popularity by drawing a total of 4,100 entries to the Horseshoe & Paris Las Vegas casino. The massive turnout generated a prizepool of $1,701,500, shared among the top 615 players. With 30-minute levels, the field was whittled down to a final table in just under two days of play.

One of the tournament's most compelling stories was Alexander Ho's performance. A recent optometry graduate, Ho made it to his first-ever WSOP final table. Although he finished in 8th place, his “two-year trial” as a professional poker player started off on a high note.

Finishing just one spot ahead was the seasoned Chris “Big Huni” Hunichen, the only final table player with a previous WSOP title.

Brayden Lou took control in the tournament's closing phase. Despite entering heads-up with a massive lead, Hoffman managed two double-ups and briefly took the lead. The decisive moment came when Lou, holding A c A s, instantly called Hoffman's all-in with A d J d. The board 3 h 4 d 4 c K c 5 d held, sealing Brayden's victory.

Final Table Results of Event #25: $500 Freezeout No-Limit Hold'em 

Place

Player

Country

Winnings

1.

Brayden Lou

USA

$196,066

2.

Jason Hoffman

USA

$130,441

3.

Tianyi Ma

China

$96,368

4.

Aaron Hendi

USA

$71,806

5.

Sam Ruha

Australia

$53,969

6.

James Wong

USA

$40,916

7.

Chris Hunichen

USA

$31,294

8.

Alexander Ho

USA

$24,148

9.

Edgar Antezana

South Africa

$18,801



Source: WSOP

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