After Jared Bleznick’s victories in Round 1 and 2, Round 3 of the High Stakes Duel 5 tournament concluded on Tuesday, November 26, at the PokerGO Studio at ARIA Resort & Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada. Jared Bleznick emerged victorious, defeating Patrik Antonius for the third consecutive time.
Following the final hand in Round 1 and Round 2, Antonius challenged Bleznick to a rematch. However, after the conclusion of Round 3, Antonius decided not to challenge Bleznick in Round 4, where the stakes would have doubled to a total of $800,000. With Antonius declining to put up $400,000 to compete in Round 4, Jared Bleznick was crowned the High Stakes Duel 5 champion and pocketed the $400,000 in prize money.
Round 3 Recap
The Round 3 match began with Pot-Limit Omaha, and both Bleznick and Antonius traded pots to start the match. Antonius gained the momentum early on, building his chip stack to 240,000 from the starting 200,000. However, Bleznick would eventually take a significant lead after flopping a set and rivering a full house against Antonius‘ flush and straight draw.
The match would swing back in Antonius‘ favor during a No-Limit Hold’em hand, where he flopped a flush draw and turned the nut flush. Bleznick bet just under the pot on the river, and Antonius moved all-in, causing Bleznick to fold. Antonius now held a lead of 253,000 to 147,000.
Jared Bleznick battled back and took the lead before a crucial Pot-Limit Omaha hand saw him flop the wheel against Antonius‘ middle set. Antonius made an excellent fold to stay alive. The match continued with both players trading pots, and the first use of a “Run It Twice” plaque occurred. Ultimately, Bleznick emerged victorious, and Antonius threw in the white flag, declining to challenge Bleznick in Round 4.
What’s Next for High Stakes Duel 6?
Both seats are open for High Stakes Duel 6, with Bleznick the favorite to return and defend his title. Bleznick has previously called out 17-time WSOP bracelet winner Phil Hellmuth, who was also the champion of High Stakes Duel 1 and High Stakes Duel 2.
Other potential challengers of Jared Bleznick include High Stakes Duel 3 champion Jason Koon or “Kid Poker” himself, Daniel Negreanu, who competed in High Stakes Duel 4.
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Watch the full High Stakes Duel 5 here:
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