Shevliakov Wins 2025 EPT Monte Carlo Main Event, Shows Strength Amid Controversy

Hello everyone, here’s an exciting story from the 2025 EPT Monte Carlo Main Event. Shevliakov from Russia, a 37-year-old IT professional playing as an amateur, claimed a €1 million prize-truly impressive!

Amateur Upset: Russia’s First EPT Main Event Win Abroad in Years

The tournament attracted 1,195 players. Shevliakov fought his way through and defeated Ukrainian player Kokhestani in the final. This marks the first time in many years that a Russian player has won the EPT Main Event abroad, making it a very special achievement.

He says poker is just a hobby for him, but after this big win, he plans to try higher-level events like the WSOP and other high roller tournaments. He’s had good results before, finishing second in last year’s Paris High Roller and making the final table in Barcelona.

Controversial Hand Sparks Discussion, Rule Issue Arises

There was a small controversy during the event. At blinds 60,000/120,000, Wakil raised to 270,000 from early position with QJ, and Shevliakov shoved 350,000 from the small blind. The dealer ruled this raise invalid because the minimum raise should have been 420,000.

After being told to correct the raise to 420,000, Wakil shoved all-in with his remaining chips, Shevliakov called with AK, won the hand, and eliminated Wakil.

Shevliakov said it was a misoperation without malicious intent and apologized to his opponent. The opponent felt this tactic had been used before but had no proof. Such minor frictions are common in poker, so no need to take it too seriously.

Intense Final Table Battle with Exciting Hands

At the start of the final, both players had deep stacks, leading to fierce competition. Shevliakov made several impressive folds showing good judgment.

They also had two rare “full house vs. full house” confrontations: Kokhestani won the first, but Shevliakov successfully countered in the second. In the end, Shevliakov’s two pair beat his opponent’s three of a kind when a 2 appeared on the river, securing the championship.

Final Rankings and Prizes

Summary

Shevliakov’s win shows that amateurs can also shine on the big stage. Despite a small controversy, his solid play and calm mind earned him the title. In poker, dreams never end-the next champion could be you!