Pairings Announced for the Triton Invitational at This Year’s WSOP Paradise

Phil Ivey is one of the many big names that will appear in the event

The pairings for the $250,000 Triton Invitational at this year’s WSOP Paradise have been revealed, setting the stage for one of December’s marquee events. The exclusive tournament features 40 players: 20 invited guests from the business and entertainment world, each matched with a professional poker player of their choosing. All competitors will battle for millions in prize money when the action kicks off in The Bahamas.

Phil Ivey headlines the list of pros making the trip. The 11-time WSOP bracelet winner was selected by Triton co-founder Paul Phua, who has become a fixture in high-stakes tournaments worldwide. Other notable invitees include Jean-Noel Thorel, David Einhorn, and Cary Katz, who brought along Bryn Kenney—the all-time tournament earnings leader.

Some fans were surprised to see that Stephen Chidwick, one of the closest contenders to Kenney’s career totals, was not selected for this year’s lineup. His absence gives room for other top pros like Alex Foxen, Mikita Badziakouski, and Jason Koon to chase another major result on the Triton stage.

The amateur lineup is stronger than ever, reflecting the blurred line between recreational and professional skill levels in modern high-stakes poker. Several invited players—such as Santhosh Suvarna, Philip Sternheimer, and Talal Shakerchi—have already posted major results in elite tournaments. Last year’s Invitational champion, Alejandro “Papo MC” Lococo, also came from the amateur side and earned $12 million for his breakout win.

With world-class players on both sides of the bracket and a structure that mixes celebrity guests with elite professionals, the Triton Invitational remains one of poker’s most unpredictable events. Fans will be watching closely when the cards hit the air in December to see which pairing claims the spotlight at WSOP Paradise.