WSOP Poker Players Championship 2026: Day 2 Begins with 100 Gold Bracelets Up for Grabs

Last Updated on June 23, 2026 by Bala Kumar

The 2026 World Series of Poker continues to produce some of the year’s most exciting action, and all eyes are now on one of the most prestigious tournaments on the schedule, the $50,000 Poker Players Championship (PPC). As Day 2 gets underway at Horseshoe and Paris Las Vegas, poker’s elite are battling for one of the most respected titles in the game.

With the 2026 WSOP featuring 100 gold bracelet events, the Poker Players Championship stands out as a true test of skill. Unlike standard No-Limit Hold’em tournaments, the PPC requires players to master multiple poker variants, making it one of the toughest events in the world. 

The Crown Jewel of Mixed-Game Poker

The Poker Players Championship has long been regarded as the ultimate challenge for professional poker players. Success requires excellence across numerous formats, including:

• No-Limit Hold’em
• Pot-Limit Omaha
• Razz
• Seven-Card Stud
• Stud Hi-Lo
• Omaha Hi-Lo
• Limit Hold’em
• Triple Draw Lowball

Because of its demanding structure, many players consider the PPC even more prestigious than some high-roller events.

Day 2 Begins With a Star-Studded Field

Day 1 produced plenty of drama and established several notable contenders heading into the second day.

Matt Glantz Leads the Way

Veteran professional Matt Glantz ended Day 1 atop the leaderboard after bagging 989,000 chips. Glantz, often regarded as one of the most accomplished players without a WSOP bracelet, enters Day 2 in an excellent position to finally capture poker’s most coveted prize.

Benny Glaser Remains Close

Eight-time bracelet winner Benny Glaser finished among the leaders with 826,000 chips and remains one of the favorites to make a deep run. The British mixed-game specialist continues to prove why he is considered one of the strongest all-around players in the world. 

Other Notable Names in Contention

Several elite players also advanced with healthy stacks:

• Chris Brewer
• Jesse Lonis
• Josh Arieh
• James Obst
• Dylan Weisman
• Frank Brannan
• Ryan Hoenig
• Robert Wells

Their presence highlights the incredible strength of the field and ensures Day 2 will feature world-class poker from start to finish. 

Michael Mizrachi’s Quest Ends Early

One of the biggest stories from Day 1 was the elimination of four-time Poker Players Championship champion Michael Mizrachi.

“Mizrachi the Grinder” entered the tournament seeking an unprecedented fifth PPC title. However, his run came to an end following a Razz hand, ending hopes of another historic victory.

His departure guarantees that a new champion will be crowned in 2026. 

Why the Poker Players Championship Is So Special

Unlike many major tournaments that focus exclusively on No-Limit Hold’em, the PPC rewards complete poker mastery.

Players must constantly adapt as games rotate throughout the tournament.

This means competitors need:

Technical Skill

Understanding multiple poker disciplines is essential.

Patience

Mixed-game tournaments are long and mentally exhausting.

Emotional Discipline

Managing variance and avoiding frustration are crucial.

Endurance

Long sessions and changing formats make stamina an important factor.

Because of these challenges, winning the Poker Players Championship often defines a player’s legacy.

100 Gold Bracelets Await During WSOP 2026

The Poker Players Championship is only one chapter in an enormous World Series of Poker schedule.

The 2026 WSOP runs from late May through mid-July and will award 100 gold bracelets across a wide range of tournaments. 

Highlights of the Series Include

• Main Event
• Mystery Millions
• Millionaire Maker
• Colossus
• High Roller Championships
• Pot-Limit Omaha events
• Mixed-game championships
• Seniors tournaments
• Ladies Championship

Buy-ins range from just a few hundred dollars to $250,000, making the series accessible to both recreational players and elite professionals. 

Las Vegas Becomes Poker’s Capital Again

Every summer, Las Vegas transforms into the center of the poker universe.

Thousands of players from around the globe travel to Horseshoe and Paris Las Vegas to compete in the world’s biggest poker festival.

In addition to bracelet events, players enjoy:

• Satellite tournaments.
• Side events.
• Cash games.
• Meet-and-greets.
• High-stakes action.

The atmosphere surrounding the World Series of Poker remains unmatched.

Mixed Games Continue to Grow

While No-Limit Hold’em remains poker’s most popular format, mixed games have experienced tremendous growth in recent years.

Events like the Poker Players Championship showcase:

• Strategic depth.
• Game variety.
• Elite-level competition.
• The versatility of professional players.

Many fans believe mixed-game tournaments represent the purest expression of poker skill.

Online discussions among players have also emphasized the importance of expanded coverage for mixed-game events, with many hoping to see more streaming and live broadcasts dedicated to these prestigious tournaments.

Players to Watch on Day 2

Matt Glantz

The overnight chip leader enters Day 2 with momentum and a chance to capture his first bracelet.

Benny Glaser

Already one of the most accomplished mixed-game players in history, Glaser remains a major threat. 

Chris Brewer

One of poker’s most consistent performers continues to chase his first PPC title.

Jesse Lonis

The young American star has enjoyed tremendous success over the past few years and could add another major accomplishment to his résumé.

Josh Arieh

The experienced veteran remains one of the toughest opponents in mixed games.

Storylines to Follow

As Day 2 progresses, fans will closely monitor:

Chip Leaders

Can Matt Glantz maintain his advantage?

Bracelet Chase

Will Benny Glaser add another title to his impressive collection?

New Champion

With Michael Mizrachi eliminated, who will emerge as the next PPC winner?

Final Table Contenders

Which stars will survive the grueling mixed-game marathon?

Why the PPC Matters

Winning the Poker Players Championship offers more than prize money.

Champions earn:

• A WSOP gold bracelet.
• Prestige among peers.
• A permanent place in poker history.
• Recognition as one of the world’s most complete players.

Few accomplishments carry greater respect in professional poker.

What Comes Next?

Day 2 will continue separating contenders from pretenders as players fight to build stacks and position themselves for a deep run.

As blinds increase and pressure mounts, every decision becomes increasingly important.

With some of the game’s biggest names still in contention, the Poker Players Championship promises more drama and excitement over the coming days.

Final Thoughts

The WSOP Poker Players Championship 2026 continues to deliver elite-level competition and compelling storylines. With Matt Glantz leading the field, Benny Glaser close behind, and Michael Mizrachi already eliminated, the stage is set for a fascinating Day 2. 

Meanwhile, the broader World Series of Poker 2026 will award 100 gold bracelets, ensuring weeks of unforgettable poker action in Las Vegas. For players and fans alike, there is simply no bigger stage than the WSOP.

Stay tuned to PokerClubGames for daily WSOP updates, tournament news, strategy guides, and expert coverage of the biggest events in poker throughout 2026.

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