The poker world has seen many unforgettable heads-up confrontations — Chan vs. Hellmuth, Moneymaker vs. Farha, and Brunson vs. Ungar among them. The rivalry between Will Kassouf and Stacy Matuson quickly joined that list after their highly publicised hand during the 2016 WSOP Main Event. The tension eventually led to a formal grudge match at the 888Live Kings Festival in Rozvadov.
The Origin of the Grudge
The rivalry began on Day 5 of the 2016 WSOP Main Event. With 630,000 chips already in the pot and a board of 5-3-2-8-10, Kassouf moved all in holding 9-6. Matuson faced a difficult decision with pocket queens as Kassouf launched into his signature and controversial speech play. Tournament officials eventually intervened, but the psychological pressure had already done its job, and Matuson folded the best hand.
She later busted the tournament after her aces were cracked. The broadcasted hand became one of the most talked-about WSOP moments in years, solidifying Kassouf’s reputation for polarising table talk and leaving Matuson determined for a rematch.
Image by Fabfotos
The Challenge: “A Trophy You Can’t Buy”
Months after the WSOP hand, Matuson issued a public video challenge on Instagram. She referenced Kassouf’s controversial High Roller win in Prague — where he agreed to take a smaller payout in exchange for being declared champion — calling the upcoming heads-up match “a trophy you can’t buy.” Motivated by pride, rivalry, and months of public debate, she demanded a rematch.
The match was scheduled for February 2 at King’s Casino Rozvadov during the 888Live Kings Festival. The rules were simple: best-of-three, starting stacks of 5,000, 12-minute blind levels, and a one-minute shot clock with a 10-minute time bank.
Match Structure
| Level | Blinds |
|---|---|
| 1 | 25/50 |
| 2 | 50/100 |
| 3 | 75/150 |
| 4 | 125/250 |
| 5 | 200/400 |
| 6 | 300/600 |
| 7 | 400/800 |
| 8 | 500/1,000 |
Kassouf Responds
Kassouf quickly accepted the challenge, releasing his own video from the Bahamas. He leaned into his infamous “nine-high like a boss” persona, stating he was ready to let the results speak. In interviews, he described himself as easy-going and suggested Matuson viewed the match more seriously — even as an opportunity for revenge.
Image by Fabfotos
The Wider Poker Community Reacts
Poker fans and professionals were immediately divided. Some believed the match was pure publicity, while others supported the competitive spirit behind it. Opinions ranged from admiration of Kassouf’s psychological tactics to strong criticism of his behaviour. Several notable voices weighed in — some backing Matuson to punish Kassouf’s showboating, and others believing Kassouf already held a mental edge before the cards were even dealt.
A Rising Star and a Veteran Competitor
Kassouf’s WSOP Main Event run and ESPN portrayal made him one of poker’s most recognisable personalities, leading to appearances such as being named a celebrity bounty in the WPT Bay 101 Shooting Star. With over $1.2 million in tournament earnings at the time, his momentum on the circuit was clear.
Matuson brought her own strong résumé, including a sixth-place finish in the 2005 WPT Ultimate Poker Classic and more than $190,000 in career earnings. As a dealer-training professional, she had long been respected for her technical discipline — a stark contrast to Kassouf’s unpredictable and talk-heavy approach.
FAQ: Kassouf vs. Matuson Grudge Match
What sparked the Kassouf vs. Matuson grudge?
The grudge began after a controversial bluff during the 2016 WSOP Main Event, in which Matuson folded the best hand following Kassouf’s speech play.
Why was the rematch held?
Matuson issued a public video challenge, calling the upcoming trophy “a trophy you can’t buy,” pushing for a heads-up battle.
Where did the match take place?
The match was played at King’s Casino Rozvadov during the 888Live Kings Festival.
What was the structure of the heads-up match?
Best-of-three format, 5,000-chip stacks, 12-minute blind levels, and a one-minute shot clock with 10 minutes of total time bank.
Why is Kassouf such a polarizing figure?
His speech play and behaviour on ESPN earned him a reputation as both entertaining and controversial, dividing the poker community.
What are Matuson’s poker credentials?
She has over $190,000 in tournament earnings and a notable sixth-place finish in the 2005 WPT Ultimate Poker Classic.
