Ever wondered what it takes to go from poker newbie to WSOP champion in a flash? Well, Kevin Li just answered that question loud and clear. At just 23, this sharp-minded Canadian from Calgary didn’t just play the game — he owned it at the 2025 World Series of Poker Tournament of Champions. With nerves of steel and a killer poker face, Li snagged his very first WSOP gold bracelet in the $1,000,000 freeroll showdown held at Los Angeles’ Commerce Casino. Talk about making a statement!
Kevin Li Steals the Spotlight with First WSOP Bracelet Win!
Kevin Li earned his place at this elite event by winning a mixed no-limit hold’em and pot-limit Omaha tournament last August at the WSOP International Circuit Deerfoot Inn & Casino. That win not only brought him $200,000 but also qualified him for the Tournament of Champions.
The 2025 WSOP Tournament of Champions drew 485 top players from an eligible pool of 1,169, all previous winners of WSOP bracelets or Circuit rings. Li entered the final day eighth in chips among the last nine players, showing resilience and sharp poker skills that propelled him to the championship.
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Highlights of the Final Table
The competition was fierce. Notable eliminations included Scott Stewart, an eight-time WSOP Circuit ring winner, who exited in ninth place after a tough loss to Shawn Rice. As the game intensified, Kevin Li faced several poker veterans like Kevin Lemmer, Yang Xu, and Maxwell Young, each falling to the relentless Canadian.
Li was short-stacked at five-handed play but doubled up at a crucial moment against Karapet Galstyan. He then went head-to-head with poker stars like Daniel Sepiol and Donald Ciaglo, winning key hands that pushed him into the lead going into heads-up play with Shawn Rice.
The Final Hand and Triumph
The final hand lasted about 90 minutes, with Li holding the upper hand. When Shawn Rice pushed all-in with K♦4♠, Li confidently called with K♠Q♥. The board runout favored Li, and he clinched the title, earning $200,000 and his first WSOP gold bracelet.
Why This Win Matters
Kevin Li’s victory is a shining example of the rising Canadian presence in the international poker scene. Winning the WSOP Tournament of Champions bracelet not only elevates his career but also marks him as one of the most promising young players to watch.
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FAQs About Kevin Li’s WSOP Victory
1. What is the World Series of Poker Tournament of Champions?
The WSOP Tournament of Champions is an exclusive annual poker event open only to winners of WSOP bracelets or Circuit rings from the previous year.
2. How did Kevin Li qualify for this event?
Li qualified by winning a mixed no-limit hold’em and pot-limit Omaha event at the WSOP International Circuit Deerfoot Inn & Casino in 2024.
3. What was the prize money for the 2025 Tournament of Champions?
Kevin Li won $200,000 for first place in this $1,000,000 freeroll event.
4. Who were some notable players Kevin Li defeated?
Li defeated top players such as Scott Stewart, Daniel Sepiol, and Shawn Rice during the final table.
5. Why is winning a WSOP gold bracelet significant?
A WSOP gold bracelet is one of the most prestigious awards in poker, symbolizing a major career milestone and recognition among the world’s best players.
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