Esfandiari is making a return after having been away from the game for years
Antonio Esfandiari is set to make his return to high-stakes poker with an appearance on PokerStars’ The Big Game on Tour, bringing with him the charisma that made him a standout in the poker world. Known as “The Magician” for his unique approach to the game, Esfandiari rose to fame with his victory at the 2012 Big One for One Drop, taking home over $18 million and further cementing his place among poker’s elite. His return adds a nostalgic thrill to the North American Poker Tour (NAPT) stop in Las Vegas, hosted at Resorts World.
Joining Esfandiari will be Phil Hellmuth, the so-called Poker Brat, known not only for his record-breaking 17 World Series of Poker (WSOP) bracelets but also for his dramatic reactions at the table. Hellmuth’s persona and unpredictable outbursts are likely to make any game an entertaining show, especially when paired with Esfandiari’s.
Other notable players joining the table include Alan Keating, known for his aggressive high-stakes play and willingness to make big moves, and Lex Veldhuis, a seasoned player who has gained a strong following in online poker streaming. Adding a twist, sports personality Nick Wright and NFL legend Rob Gronkowski, known more for his football career and media presence than his poker skills, are also in the lineup, setting the stage for an engaging mix of personalities.
The game will also include a “loose cannon” player, selected through a combination of a qualifying tournament and an audition, offering one lucky newcomer a chance to test their skills against some of the game’s most recognizable names. Past loose cannons, like Nikki Limo and Lily Newhouse, have added unexpected dynamics to similar games, and this year’s wild card is sure to keep the veterans on their toes.
With Esfandiari back in action and a diverse lineup of players, this season of The Big Game on Tour promises to be an exciting event in the NAPT schedule, delivering entertainment for both fans and players alike.
Emma Rodriguez is the Proofreader at the Big Blind, with seven years of experience and five years in online gambling. She plays a crucial role in maintaining content quality by ensuring error-free, reader-friendly information about the gambling industry.
