This is tougher than a bracelet
OK – I’ll probably take some flack for this in the comments, but I’ve never really been a fan of the WSOP bracelets. Until this year, bracelets weren’t even awarded at a ceremony. They were handed out at about 3am in front of some bleary eyed players around the final tables.
I OBVIOUSLY understand the prestige of winning a WSOP event. But a bracelet? Poker badass/curmudgeon, Doyle Brunson didn’t even bother to pick up a few of the ones that he won.
Seriously. Can you imagine many guys that would want to wear the bracelet if it didn’t hold the connotation of a WSOP winner? I wouldn’t. That’s for sure. If you’re wearing long sleeves, you can’t even guarantee people will see it.
That’s why I’m proposing this simple solution: award WWE-style championship belts in lieu of gold bracelets. Don’t tell me that wouldn’t rule, because it would.
Fact: I can’t think of anything better for poker than walking into the Rio with a belt around my waist and one slung across my shoulder.
I like the idea but only for the World Championship events, like the Main Event, World Championship of Pot Limit Omaha, World Championship of Stud, etc. etc. Don’t give out belts to all of the lesser events at the WSOP.
Touche, Ken.
We just can’t destroy the sanctity of the belt.
But if they stop giving out bracelets, what else will hairy greek men strive to get? Pinky rings?
I like the way it is: bracelets! Belts are for the ring. Why belt? They don’t wear tops. You won’t go to a poker tourney on a wrestling/boxing outfit just to show your belt! Tourney winners are recognized on the tables with or without their bracelets.
I strongly feel that the WSOP ought to consider having a poker belt from now on! Considering that they’re playing 12 hours a day for 8+ days straight, and alot of emotional roller coaster rides they have to endure, not to mention having to take alot of verbal bantering from Phil Hellmuth, and Mike Matasow in particular, that can take alot out of someone. I myself would like to participate in the Main event someday, and the only way I would do so is by having a poker belt at stake to the winner. Honestly, I think all sports big and small ought to have a championship belt including the NBA, golf, and the NFL!