Koji Fujimoto Beats Nick Schulman to Win First WSOP Bracelet

Koji Fujimoto captured his first WSOP bracelet at the 2026 World Series of Poker, defeating Nick Schulman heads-up in Event #67: $10,000 Limit 2-7 Triple Draw Championship in Las Vegas.

The Japanese poker coach outlasted a 176-entry field and earned $392,478 for the win. Schulman, an eight-time WSOP bracelet winner and 2025 Poker Hall of Fame inductee, finished second for $256,181.

Fujimoto Survives a Star-Heavy Final Day

The final day resumed inside the Paris Ballroom with 11 players still in contention. Several major names remained in the field, including Todd Brunson, Billy Baxter, and Schulman.

Baxter, one of poker’s most respected draw-game specialists, exited in eighth place. Naoya Kihara then finished seventh for $47,401, before Brunson took sixth for $62,404.

Justin Smith placed fifth for $84,845, while Andrew Kelsall finished fourth for $119,011. Tommy Hang was the final player eliminated before heads-up play, taking third place for $172,064.

Schulman Leads, Fujimoto Finds a Way Back

Schulman began heads-up play with 6.5 million chips against Fujimoto’s 4.15 million, and the early momentum stayed with Schulman. Fujimoto, however, remained patient and eventually brought the match back within reach.

Fujimoto also had support nearby. Kihara encouraged him during the duel, and several of Fujimoto’s students were on the rail as the match developed.

The lead changed hands during the final stretch before Fujimoto secured the decisive pot. On the last hand, Schulman looked set to double up, but the final draw changed everything. Fujimoto drew a three and made a pair, only for Schulman to draw a four and also pair one of his own cards, leaving Fujimoto with the winning hand.

After the hand, Schulman congratulated Fujimoto. Fujimoto then turned toward his rail and bowed as the room applauded the new champion.

Final Table Results