High Stakes Showdown: Bleznick vs. Antonius

The much-anticipated High Stakes Duel 5, held in November 2024, featured a powerhouse matchup between newly inducted Poker Hall of Famer Patrik Antonius and the formidable Jared Bleznick. This showdown marked a significant return for the event, over a year since the previous Duel between Daniel Negreanu and Doug Polk.

Career Highlights Leading to the Duel

Patrik Antonius, a veteran with nearly $30M in lifetime tournament earnings, entered the Duel following a substantial victory at the Triton Poker Super High Roller Series in Monte Carlo, where he secured a $5.13M win. On the other side, Jared Bleznick brought over $7M in live earnings to the table, significantly bolstered by his performances in 2024, including a $2M win at the WSOP $50K High Roller event.

Round-by-Round: Bleznick’s Aggression Pays Off

The initial round of the Duel on November 12 showcased Bleznick’s aggressive style overpowering Antonius’ strategic approach, leading to a quick victory for Bleznick. Unwilling to back down, Antonius immediately requested a rematch with a $100K buy-in, only to see history repeat itself as Bleznick clinched another win using similar tactics.

The stakes doubled to $200K for the third round on November 26 at the PokerGO Studio, leading to an intense and prolonged battle. Both players adapted their strategies in an epic five-hour heads-up session. Ultimately, Bleznick’s adaptability shone through, securing him a third consecutive victory in the series.

Bleznick’s Triumph: Cash Prize and Championship Belt

Jared Bleznick emerged from High Stakes Duel 5 not only with $350K in cash but also the prestigious HSD championship belt, marking a clean sweep against one of poker’s legends. This victory underscores his prowess and cements his reputation as a top competitor in high-stakes poker circles.