Joseph Cheong Triples Up In Massive Clash

Joseph Cheong opened to 11,000 from middle position, Thomas Muehloecker called on the button, and Kyle Keranen defended his big blind. The flop was and Keranen checked. Cheong continued with 21,000, Muehloecker called, and Keranen called as well.

On the turn, it was time for fireworks. Keranen checked, Cheong checked, Muehloecker bet 56,000, Keranen called, then Cheong check-raised all in for 148,000! Muehloecker thought for a minute, then shoved all in as for 153,000. Action back on Keranen, who had to blink after witnessing the action in front of him. Getting over 4:1 on his money on a call, the American shrugged and put in the extra 100,000, creating a monstrous three-way pot.

Joseph Cheong:
Thomas Muehloecker:
Kyle Keranen:

Cheong had a commanding lead on the hand, and the former November Niner only needed to dodge the remaining five or the clubs for a huge triple-up. The on the river was the brick Cheong needed, launching him to the top of the standings. Muehloecker, left with just one big blind, got 5,000 from Keranen for finishing second. Keranen himself was crippled as well, remaining with just five big blinds on the verge of the bubble.