Arash Ghaneian has won his second gold bracelet almost a decade after his first in Event #74: $10,000 Seven Card Stud Hi-Lo 8 or Better Championship.
Once again, the fans were treated to an epic heads-up performance that saw the American beat Richard Sklar for the title and a $376,476 prize.
Ghaneian was emotional after his victory, paying homage to his family and friends on the rail. He also paid tribute to Richard Sklar, acknowledging him as a great player and tough opponent.
We also learned that his bracelet win back in 2015 came amidst a worrying time as his wife suffered a difficult pregnancy with twins with the prospect of losing them.
Today, however, he can sit back and bask in the glory of a fantastic performance.
Final Action
The heads-up battle lasted several hours with neither player losing any ground, trading pot after pot.
The momentum shifted to Ghaneian after he scooped a big pot with a full house followed by several more significant pots which allowed him to build a lead.
Before long, Sklar was down to his final two big bets but picked up a double-up just in the nick of time. But it was too little too late.
Sklar decided to go with a pair and eight-six low only for Ghaneian to wake up with a wheel when the cards were turned over.
A great result for a player who isn’t a professional and only wants to sit down with some of the best in the business.
He told reporters:
“I’ve never considered myself a tournament player, but I enjoy the competition. It’s nice to compete with these guys. The best in the world play this, and it’s nice to come out on top. It feels great.
“The money is great. I love the money, but I definitely wanted the bracelet … I would almost want to get second-place money and get the bracelet as well because it’s just that important.”
Event #74: $10,000 Seven Card Stud Hi-Lo 8 or Better Championship Final Table Results
| Place | Name | Country | Prize (USD) |
| 1 | Arash Ghaneian | United States | $376,476 |
| 2 | Richard Sklar | United States | $250,984 |
| 3 | Thomas Taylor | Canada | $173,533 |
| 4 | Todd Brunson | United States | $122,663 |
| 5 | Eric Wasserson | United States | $88,686 |
| 6 | Dario Alioto | Italy | $65,620 |
| 7 | Andrey Zhigalov | Russia | $49,715 |
| 8 | Michael Rocco | United States | $38,589 |
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