In a blog recently published on PartyPoker’s website, World Poker Tour host Mike Sexton (pictured) questioned the value of World Series of Poker bracelets and called out the WSOP for a few other reasons. Sexton is a member of the Poker Hall of Fame and owns one WSOP bracelet, which came in a Stud High-Low event in 1989.

After saying that the WSOP is “diluting” its product, Sexton argued, “Winning a WSOP bracelet is the dream of nearly all poker players, the marketing of which has played a key role in attracting customers. The staying power, however, will evaporate if more and more bracelets are continually handed out.”

Sexton pointed out that in 1970, the WSOP’s first year, only one bracelet was given out. In 1999, there were 16 awarded, but this year, explained Sexton, “There are 68 bracelet events on tap plus all of the events at WSOPE and WSOP Australia… I’m worried, as the number of events continually grows, the value of each bracelet will diminish.” Sexton advocated only awarding bracelets in Las Vegas.

He also touched on the November Nine, a concept he’s against because it “doesn’t put players first.” He explained, “We all know they move the Main Event final table from July to November for PR and TV reasons. I wish they would allow players to take two days off – one for rest and the other for player interviews – and play the final table on the third day. This would allow family and friends time to travel to Las Vegas to watch. The Rio showroom would still be jam-packed. And I’m sure the TV ratings would be good. Most importantly, I feel certain the vast majority of players would prefer to play the final table in July.”

Sexton argued that there are a variety of issues with waiting four months, including an unfair rest and training period, a short-stacked player having to return to Las Vegas only to be ousted immediately, and the potential of someone dying during the break. He chided about the latter point, “I’m guessing they’ll put a little coffin on the table and blind that person off.”

What do you think? Do you agree or disagree with Sexton on either point? Comment here and let us know.

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