Cary Katz has finally broken the spell and picked up his first WSOP bracelet title
Cary Katz, the founder of PokerGO and a prominent figure in high-stakes poker tournaments, has secured his first-ever World Series of Poker (WSOP) bracelet. After years of near misses, including three runner-up finishes, Katz clinched victory in the 2025 $2,500 No-Limit Hold’em Freezeout event, outlasting 1,299 players and taking home $449,245.
Katz, known for his consistent performances at the highest levels of poker, entered this event with a reputation built on substantial finishes, including a runner-up spot in the 2023 $100,000 High Roller event. His victory in this $2,500 event was especially meaningful since it came in a tournament far different from the high buy-ins he’s typically associated with. The win added another chapter to his poker career, which now boasts nearly $41 million in tournament earnings.
The victory also marked a significant moment for Katz personally, as his family was in attendance to witness his achievement. He reflected on the experience, stating how he enjoyed every moment of the tournament and was focused on being fully present.
Bracelet secured! Cary Katz 🇺🇸 (@carykatz) breaks through with his first WSOP bracelet in Event #83: $2,500 Freezeout NLH, topping a tough field of 1,299 and cashing in for $449,245. A well-earned win! #WSOP2025 pic.twitter.com/QUiJU75LpB
— WSOP – World Series of Poker (@WSOP) July 7, 2025
Despite his regular participation in large-scale, high-buy-in events, Katz wasn’t originally scheduled to play in this tournament. He decided to enter on a whim, calling it a “gut feeling” that led him to make the decision to participate, a move that ultimately paid off.
Katz’s road to the win included a strong run through Day 3, where he found himself in third place when play paused. The final heads-up battle against Breno Drumond featured plenty of back-and-forth action, but Katz’s solid play eventually pushed him past Drumond for the victory.
The win not only marked his first WSOP bracelet but also removed his name from the list of high earners without one, adding a significant accomplishment to his poker legacy.
