Elias Gutierrez Claims Second High Roller Title at EPT Cyprus
In the sun-drenched ambiance of Cyprus, PokerStars Ambassador Elias Gutierrez showcased his exceptional poker skills, staying remarkably composed to clinch his second high roller title during the 2024 PokerStars European Poker Tour (EPT) Cyprus. This triumph is a testament to both his mental fortitude and strategic prowess at the poker table.
A Huge Win in the Super High Roller Warm-Up
Earlier in the week, Gutierrez made headlines by winning the $25,000 Super High Roller Warm Up held at the luxurious Merit Royal Diamond Hotel Casino & Spa. His first-place finish earned him a staggering $417,570, further solidifying his reputation as a formidable player on the high-stakes circuit. Gutierrez’s charge didn’t end there; just a few days later, he triumphed again in the $25,000 Super High Roller Second Chance, walking away with an additional $390,200 and a coveted Spadie trophy.
These consecutive victories not only propelled his series earnings to over $800,000 but also marked a substantial milestone in his career, pushing his lifetime earnings beyond the $1 million mark and placing him among the top 25 players on Spain’s all-time money list.
The Final Table Breakdown
The fierce competition at the Second Chance high roller event saw Gutierrez face off against a field of 50 entries. In an intense final showdown, he overcame Teun Mulder in a swift heads-up duel lasting just one level. This victory came against the backdrop of a total prize pool of $1,200,500, where Gutierrez took home the lion’s share of the rewards.
$25,000 Second Chance Results
Here’s a breakdown of the final standings and prizes:
| Place | Player | Country | Prize |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Elias Gutierrez | Spain | $390,200 |
| 2 | Teun Mulder | Netherlands | $258,100 |
| 3 | Hassan Nashar | Gambia | $174,100 |
| 4 | Samuel Mullur | Austria | $132,100 |
| 5 | Kayhan Mokri | Norway | $102,000 |
| 6 | Ognyan Dimov | Bulgaria | $81,000 |
| 7 | Simone Andrian | Italy | $63,000 |
Winner’s Reaction: The Emotional Rollercoaster
In his post-victory interview with PokerNews, Gutierrez reflected on the challenges he faced during the heads-up. He admitted that this match was mentally taxing because of his strong desire to win. "My first win was more difficult," he shared, describing the emotional highs and lows he experienced. "I started with a huge chip lead heads-up, but my opponent turned it around, and I suffered mentally because I really wanted to win."
Gutierrez’s mindset going into the latest heads-up had improved significantly. He strategically prepared himself and emphasized the importance of relaxation and clarity during critical moments. "Today, I entered [heads-up] better. I tried to relax and think clearly about what I was doing," he said, illustrating the invaluable lessons learned from his previous battles.
The Action-Packed Final Day
The final competition unfolded after eight rigorous levels on Day 1, later joined by twelve late registrants. It was a ruthless day for many contenders, with notable players such as Sam Grafton and Albert Daher falling short of the money, marking a fierce and competitive environment.
As the players battled for the top spots, tragedy struck for Roman Hrabec, who became the unfortunate bubble boy, eliminated without a payout after failing to find a miracle against Mulder’s powerful set.
With only seven players receiving payouts, the stakes couldn’t have been higher. Eliminations continued rapidly as the bubble burst, and soon enough, a series of strategic plays led to intense eliminations—including Samuel Mullur, who had begun the final table with a commanding chip lead but fell just shy of the podium.
Heads-Up: A Quick Resolution
As the action intensified, the tension in the room was palpable. Hassan Nashar, who had been lively and vocal throughout the tournament, put up an impressive fight before succumbing to Gutierrez’s formidable hand. When heads-up play finally commenced, Gutierrez boasted a significant chip lead over Mulder.
In a dramatic conclusion, Gutierrez sealed his victory when he confidently shoved the river with top pair, drawing a call from Mulder’s second pair. The moment the final card was laid down, it was clear that Gutierrez had not only outplayed his opponents but had also embraced the emotional journey of a champion.
Conclusion
Elias Gutierrez’s victory at the 2024 PokerStars EPT Cyprus is a vivid reminder of the unpredictable thrill of high-stakes poker. His ability to overcome challenges, adapt his strategy, and maintain a strong mental game underscores why he is considered one of the leading figures in today’s poker landscape. With his impressive track record, it will be exciting to see where his journey takes him next in the world of professional poker.
