Rantala Smacks the Flop For a Massive Double Knockout

David Salituro

Level 13 : Blinds 1,000/2,500, 2,500 ante

"I have them convinced I never bluff. Back from the dead," Graydon Kowal said as the cards were being dealt at his table. He proved to be a mere spectator as Paul Covaciu moved all in for 24,000 in early position. Philippe Barouk called on the button, as did Eero Rantala in the small blind.

The flop came 6?2?9? and Barouk bet 25,000. Rantala called to create a side pot as they went to the 3? turn.

Barouk fired another 40,000 and Rantala came back with an all-in shove. Barouk tanked for a few moments before calling for around 140,000.

He showed J?J? and Covaciu turned over A?K?. They were both behind, however, as Rantala showed 9?9? for a set. The river was the Q? and Rantala scooped the massive pot to send both players to the rail.

"Good hand," Kowal told him.

"Thank you. Got very lucky," Rantala replied as he stacked up more than 500,000.