Jared Bleznick Captures First Bracelet in $50k NLH High Roller

The 2024 World Series of Poker (WSOP), held at Horseshoe and Paris Las Vegas, witnessed an electrifying conclusion to Event #92: $50,000 High Roller No-Limit Hold’em. From an elite field of 178 players, Jared Bleznick emerged victorious, securing his first WSOP bracelet, the top prize of $2,037,947, and a place among poker’s tournament elite.

The five remaining finalists began the day guaranteed at least $499,097, but each had their sights set on the title and the lion’s share of the $8,499,500 prize pool. Bleznick navigated through one of the most formidable final tables of the series, ultimately defeating Jesse Lonis in heads-up play to claim victory.

Bleznick Reflects on His Milestone Win

Though primarily known as a cash game specialist, Bleznick was ecstatic to prove himself on the tournament stage.

“This means a lot—especially for my friends, family, and those who doubted me because I hadn’t won a bracelet before,” Bleznick shared after his win. “I’ve always known I could compete at the highest level, but I haven’t played many tournaments until recently. Now, I want to play more and more.”

Bleznick also spoke about the ever-evolving nature of poker and his drive to adapt.

“Poker changes constantly. The best players from a decade ago aren’t necessarily the best today. Young guys like Jesse Lonis are figuring out new strategies and excelling. My challenge is to counter those approaches, which I’ve always excelled at in heads-up poker.”

Strategy, Key Moments, and Final Day Drama

The final day began with Christoph Vogelsang commanding a significant chip lead, but Bleznick wasted no time in making his presence felt. He aggressively targeted Vogelsang, explaining, “I wasn’t afraid to take on the chip leader. Vogelsang plays like a computer, and I know how to exploit that style. I’m comfortable playing big pots for big money, and that’s where my edge lies.”

Bleznick’s pivotal moments included a dramatic hand early in the day when he eliminated Justin Saliba. Saliba’s ace-king was outdrawn by Bleznick’s ace-queen, which hit a backdoor flush, solidifying Bleznick’s chip stack and momentum. Meanwhile, Nacho Barbero briefly closed the gap on Vogelsang but was eventually eliminated in fourth place after a series of setbacks.

One of the tournament’s defining hands saw Vogelsang shove with ace-nine, only to run into Bleznick’s pocket tens. Bleznick’s tens held, sending Vogelsang to the rail in third place and setting up a heads-up showdown against Lonis.

In the final duel, Lonis managed a few small wins but could not overcome Bleznick’s dominant position. The decisive hand saw Lonis push with pocket sevens, only for Bleznick to call with ace-four and spike an ace on the flop. The board ran clean for Bleznick, clinching him the title.

Giving Credit Where It’s Due

Bleznick credited longtime friend Shaun Deeb for his motivation. “Shaun pushed me to play these tournaments through side bets. Without them, I wouldn’t have entered this event. This summer was about proving to myself and others that I could win in a tournament structure. And now, I’ve done it.”

Final Table Results – Event #92: $50,000 High Roller No-Limit Hold’em

Bleznick’s performance marks a crowning achievement in his career, proving that his skills extend far beyond cash games. With his first bracelet now in hand, the poker world can expect to see much more of Jared Bleznick on the tournament circuit.