When one mentions poker jewelry, the immediate association is often with the coveted diamond bracelets awarded at the World Series of Poker (WSOP). These iconic prizes have been sought after by players worldwide for over 50 years, with the legendary Phil Hellmuth leading the pack with 17 bracelets. Given the enduring legacy of Hellmuth and the considerable gap between him and other poker players like Phil Ivey, Johnny Chan, and Doyle Brunson (each with 10 bracelets), it appears that his record may remain unchallenged.
WSOPC ring race
However, the narrative takes an intriguing turn in the WSOP Circuit, a subsidiary series that disperses valuable rings to champions across various smaller stops globally. In this arena, American players play a pivotal role, consistently reshuffling the rankings with their performances each year. Unlike the WSOP bracelets, this stage offers a more open and thrilling race. Currently, a remarkable nine players have accumulated 10 or more rings to their names, creating a dynamic and competitive landscape that adds an extra layer of excitement to the poker world. Recently, we wrote about Josh Reichard, who got his 14th ring, thanks to which he tied Maurcie Hawkins.
Ari Engel with 5 rings in 2023
Ari Engel has etched his name in the annals of World Series of Poker Circuit (WSOPC) history, now holding the record for the most WSOPC gold rings. The accomplished Canadian poker professional was previously tied with Maurice Hawkins, each boasting 15 WSOPC titles. However, Engel surged ahead with consecutive victories at the WSOPC Graton Casino event in Northern California in August. Then, on Tuesday, October 10, he clinched his unprecedented 16th ring by triumphing in the $400 buy-in Omaha eight-or-better event at the WSOPC Horseshoe Hammond festival. Toronto's two-time WSOP bracelet holder has been on a winning streak in 2023, securing five rings, two online and two in California, with another in Indiana. Engel´s first victory came in 2007 when he claimed his very first ring by triumphing in a $300 buy-in event at WSOP Caesars Atlantic City, walking away with $63,018.
Source: cardplayer.com
