Jivkov’s victory is yet another reminder that anyone can win at the WSOP and big-name status doesn’t necessarily guarantee victory.
“I wasn’t intimidated at all,” he said. “I think if you go into these events intimidated by anyone you’ve already lost.”
It’s not as if Jivkov was a rookie, in fact he’s been playing for over 15 years, and owns a WSOPC ring. On Day 1 of the tournament he played at a table with legendary poker pro Phil Ivey.
Jivkov may not have been intimidated by Negreanu but it was a relief when he busted him in fifth place.
“I really didn’t want to play him heads-up,” he said. “He’s obviously one of the best players in the world.”
Negreanu busted when Jivkov rivered a straight against his top pair.
Jivkov was born in Bulgaria but moved to the U.S. when he was 12 years old. Over 10 years ago Jivkov wandered into a casino and found a game that would eventually change his life.
“This is a dream that’s been 15 years in the making,” he said as he accepted his first WSOP bracelet.
Jivkov currently lives in Chicago and owns a transportation business.
He’s living proof that you don’t have to be a full-time poker player to have success on the biggest stage in the poker world.
Jivkov is anxious to get back to his wife and two daughters in Chicago but will take a run at WSOP Player of the Year before he heads back.
“I’m going to play a ton,” he said.
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