The air was electric in the Rio as poker fans packed into the stands, hoping to see Kid Poker win what would have been his sixth bracelet.
It was an incredibly tough final table that included David Chiu, David “ODB” Baker and Scott Seiver but the crowd was certainly behind Negreanu.
Instead it was the veteran cash game player Elezra who found a way to overcome Negreanu heads-up.
“I'm glad for the second bracelet,” said Elezra after winning. “I'm going to try for about five more.”
Elezra took down $173,236 for winning the contest while Negreanu had to settle for $107,055.
Known more for his cash game chops, it was Elezra’s second WSOP bracelet. He won his first in 2007.
Prior to tonight, Negreanu had five cashes in this year’s WSOP in Las Vegas but no final tables.
The inaugural WSOP Asia-Pacific in Australia was another story, however, as Negreanu made one final table and then won the Main Event there for $1.08 million.
Even Elezra admitted it felt a little wrong beating the likable Canadian.
“I feel bad for Daniel,” he said. “He’s a good friend and he’s the best ambassador for poker.
Despite the strong finish, Negreanu still trails recent $50k Players Championship winner Matthew Ashton in WSOP POY.
After busting Negreanu immediately ran over to take his seat in the $10k Pot-Limit Omaha event, which is the last prelim of the summer. The $10k Main Event is set to begin tomorrow.
Here’s a complete look at the final-table payouts:
1st: Eli Elezra - $173,236 2nd: Daniel Negreanu - $107,055 3rd: Brian Brubaker - $70,743 4th: David Chiu - $48,077 5th: David "ODB" Baker - $33,399 6th: Scott Seiver - $23,698Visit www.pokerlistings.com