News / Chris Edwards / 02 July 2008 / Leave a comment

In less than a week we will have 9 players who have outlasted thousands to make the most anticipated final table in the history of the WSOP Main Event. One player will be crowned World Champion in undoubtedly thrilling fashion, so to prepare we will look at some of the more memorable final hands of past events.

In 2000, 512 players entered the $10,000 Main Event. The final table would dwindle down to two players, Chris 'Jesus' Ferguson and TJ Cloutier. Chris had already won his first bracelet in Stud this year whilst TJ had 4 to his name. When heads up play began, Chris had a 10-1 chip lead, but TJ battled back to almost even. After splitting some interesting pots, Chris made a large preflop raise with As9c and TJ instantly moved all in with AdQc.
Chris looks pain-stricken at the situation, but in the end declares 'Im going to gamble with you, im all in' and flips his cards. He looks shell shocked as he sees the AQ and with a board of 2h Kc 4h Kh, Chris is only a 6.8% favorite to win the hand. If he lost he would be severely crippled but God smiled on his son and granted a 9h on the river. Cloutier was gracious in his defeat 'I gave it a good try, he played well and we had a good time.' Chris won $1.5m for first place with Cloutier winning $896k for second.

Four years later, a large man with funny glasses started making a lot of noise in the final few days. Greg 'Fossilman' Raymer was one of 2,576 entrants who entered the 2004 Main Event, the last ever WSOP at Binions Horseshoe. After controversial player Josh Arieh was eliminated by Raymer in third, he took no time to end the tournament against heads up opponent David Williams. Raymer called Williams preflop raise with pocket 8's. The flop came 4d 2d 5s and Raymer checked. Williams, holding Ah 4s instantly bets his pair and straight draw. Raymer raises and is quickly called. The turn brings the 2h and Williams almost beats Raymer into the pot after calling his bet. A final deuce gives both a full house and Raymer announces he's all in, Williams calls and its all over. Talking about his win, Raymer said afterwards 'I cant imagine $5m in my pocket.' Williams won $3.5m for second place.

Next we will look at some older victories and how other legends were made.