The top-ranked player from the Philippines showcased his skills at the highest-stakes table in this prestigious tournament. Takayama had an impressive 2023 with notable victories, including the APT/VSOP Superstar Showdown. He treated us to a technically sound final table, going head-to-head with other pros from Vietnam.
At WPT Cambodia 2024, he and fellow countryman Marc Rivera reached the heads-up battle for the SHR Cup. After both players agreed to a deal, the difference in prizes for the first and second place was a mere $1 USD, with the 1st place receiving USD 158,587 and the 2nd place receiving USD 158,586, along with the coveted WPT Cup.
The heads-up match started with 108BB for Mike Takayama and 98BB for Marc Rivera. A crucial hand unfolded when Marc, in the AQ position, faced a tank-call situation after the flop revealed KA6, and the turn came 7. Takayama made a big shove, pushing 5,685,000 chips into a pot of only 1,125,000. After Marc's call, Takayama showed K7 and was in the lead. The river card 5 secured the double-up for Takayama.
Not long after that, an all-in situation occurred with Takayama holding 88 and Marc having AQ. The emotional rollercoaster continued with the flop revealing A810, the turn 7, and the river 9. Mike Takayama emerged as the champion of the WPT SHR Cambodia, taking home a prize of USD 158,587.
