WSOP 2026: Koji Fujimoto Thwarts Schulman's Chase for Ninth Gold Bracelet Event 67
In WSOP 2026 Event 67, Japan's Koji Fujimoto successfully thwarted American star Nick Schulman, dashing his hopes of winning a ninth WSOP gold bracelet. This article reviews the key showdown.
Event Background
The 2026 WSOP series is heating up, and Event #67, a high buy-in tournament, has attracted top players from around the world. American poker legend Nick Schulman, already holding eight WSOP gold bracelets, entered this event with his sights set on a ninth, aiming to further cement his legendary status. However, Japanese player Koji Fujimoto delivered a stellar performance at the final table, ultimately crushing Schulman’s championship dreams.
Final Table Battle
Entering the final table as the chip leader, the experienced Schulman quickly seized control of the table. But Fujimoto refused to back down, steadily closing the chip gap with precise reads and calm decision-making.
Key Hand
When heads-up play began, the stacks were close. In a crucial hand, the flop brought a flush draw. Fujimoto made a continuation bet, Schulman thought and then raised, and Fujimoto immediately shoved all-in. After a long tank, Schulman folded. This bluff allowed Fujimoto to reclaim the lead.
From that point on, Fujimoto grew increasingly confident. Eventually, he flopped top pair, and Schulman missed his draw, ending the match. Fujimoto won Event #67 and claimed his first WSOP gold bracelet. Schulman had to settle for runner-up, and his ninth bracelet remains out of reach.
Player Comments
After the match, Fujimoto said, "Beating someone like Nick is surreal. He's a player I deeply respect, and this victory means a lot to me." Schulman graciously congratulated his opponent: "Koji played exceptionally well. He deserved the win today. I'll keep working hard; that ninth bracelet will come eventually."
Significance and Outlook
Fujimoto's victory not only brings honor to the Japanese poker community but also demonstrates the competitiveness of Asian players on the WSOP stage. Although Schulman failed to reach his milestone, his eight-bracelet achievement remains awe-inspiring. The 2026 WSOP still has more events to come, and new legends are being written.