The poker world is buzzing after Bryn Kenney referred to Phil Hellmuth as a “minor league” player, stirring up controversy among fans and professionals alike. Kenney, the all-time leader in live tournament earnings with $67 million, questioned Hellmuth’s abilities at the highest levels of professional poker, despite Hellmuth’s unmatched 17 WSOP bracelets and legendary status in the World Series of Poker (WSOP).
Kenney Questions Hellmuth’s Legacy
Appearing on the Digital Social Hour podcast with Sean Kelly, Kenney didn’t hold back when discussing the current state of poker and his own experiences, including a massive $3.5 million loss in a single session. However, his most contentious comments came when asked whether Hellmuth is the best tournament player.
Kenney’s response was direct: “If you’re not competing at the highest level, you can’t be in the conversation for being the best.” He suggested that while Hellmuth may be “king of some subcategory” in poker, he doesn’t qualify as the Greatest of All Time (G.O.A.T.) unless he consistently participates in high-stakes tournaments, like Kenney himself does.
Hellmuth Fires Back
Phil Hellmuth, famous for his confidence and competitive spirit, took to Twitter to respond. He emphasized that the World Series of Poker is, and always will be, “the major leagues” of poker. Additionally, he pointed out his over $1.5 million in High Roller event earnings and reminded his critics of his success in the High Stakes Duel TV show.
This public back-and-forth has reignited a long-standing debate within the poker community: what truly defines greatness in poker? Is it the number of WSOP bracelets, high-stakes tournament success, or consistent performance at the highest levels?
A Heated Debate on Poker’s Greatest
With Bryn Kenney questioning Hellmuth’s status and Hellmuth defending his record, the poker world is divided. The debate continues about whether greatness is measured by WSOP success or competing in the largest buy-in events, where the pressure and stakes are unmatched.
