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Luiz Felipe Nascimento Triumphs at KSOP Circuit Amazônia Experience

Luiz Felipe Nascimento Merlo, a local from Manaus, secured his first national poker title at the KSOP Circuit Amazônia Experience, overcoming a field of 208 entries and a challenging heads-up battle against multi-champion Cleide Sobrinho.

News Published 14 May 2026 4 min read Ethan Reed
Luiz Felipe Nascimento celebrating his victory at the KSOP Circuit Amazônia Experience poker tournament.
Featured image from the source article

Luiz Felipe Nascimento Merlo, a player from Manaus, has claimed his inaugural national poker title at the KSOP Circuit Amazônia Experience. Nascimento emerged victorious from a field of 208 participants, securing R$7,850 after a heads-up deal with the seasoned multi-champion Cleide Sobrinho. The win marks a significant milestone for Nascimento, who expressed deep emotion and gratitude following his triumph in his home city.

The "Experience" tournament series has become a popular fixture within the KSOP Circuit, known for its accessible buy-ins and engaging gameplay. The Amazônia leg proved particularly successful, drawing a substantial crowd and culminating in a dramatic final table.

A Memorable Debut

For Luiz Felipe Nascimento, the KSOP Circuit Amazônia represented his first foray into a national-level poker event. Playing on home turf, he capitalized on the opportunity, navigating through a competitive field to reach the final two. His victory was not just about the prize money but also the symbolic achievement of winning on such a grand stage in his hometown.

Nascimento's journey to the title was filled with intense moments, particularly the heads-up match against Cleide Sobrinho. He acknowledged the difficulty of the final duel, describing it as the toughest he had ever faced in his poker career.

Heads-Up Battle Against a Veteran

The decisive heads-up encounter between Nascimento and Cleide Sobrinho was a true test of skill and resilience. Sobrinho, a multi-champion in the KSOP circuit, presented a formidable challenge, pushing Nascimento to his limits. The match saw multiple lead changes, with Sobrinho frequently regaining momentum after losing all-ins, forcing Nascimento to fight back repeatedly.

Nascimento praised Sobrinho's experience and strategic play, highlighting her ability to execute bluffs and maintain pressure. Despite the intense competition, he expressed immense respect and admiration for his opponent, acknowledging her gentle demeanor and high level of play. This mutual respect underscored the sportsmanship displayed at the final table.

The Final Table's Diverse Lineup

The final table of the Amazônia Experience featured a diverse mix of talent, including players from various regions. Among them were Venezuelan Jesus Mejia and Brazilian players Jonh Roney, João Pedro Pinheiro, Raimundo Pantoja, Dafne Nascimento, Julio Orasma, and Carlos Almeida. Cleide Sobrinho, known for her strong track record in the KSOP, was a prominent figure, making her heads-up appearance unsurprising to many.

Key Facts

EventKSOP Circuit Amazônia Experience
WinnerLuiz Felipe Nascimento Merlo
Runner-UpCleide Sobrinho
Prize (Winner)R$ 7,850
Field Size208 entries
Note: Prize money agreed after a heads-up deal.

Significance for Poker Players

This event showcases the growing accessibility and excitement of national poker circuits like the KSOP. Accessible buy-ins for tournaments like the "Experience" series allow a broader range of players, from seasoned veterans to enthusiastic newcomers like Luiz Felipe Nascimento, to compete on a national stage. This fosters local talent and injects fresh energy into the poker community. For video poker and poker players, these events highlight the strategic depth required to succeed, emphasizing the importance of adaptability, emotional control, and the ability to compete against diverse playing styles. The dramatic heads-up battle also serves as a reminder that even against highly experienced opponents, a well-executed strategy and mental fortitude can lead to victory.

Responsible Play Considerations

Poker, while a game of skill, involves elements of chance and can be addictive. Players should always practice responsible gambling, setting limits on time and money spent. Resources for responsible gambling are available through national and local regulatory bodies, offering support and advice for maintaining a healthy relationship with gaming. The emotional intensity seen in high-stakes matches like the KSOP Circuit final underscores the importance of managing one's emotions at the table and knowing when to step away.

Fuente: Mundo Poker, https://mundopoker.com.br/noticias/ksop/ksop-circuit-luiz-felipe-nascimento-vence-heads-up-emocionante-contra-cleide-sobrinho-e-e-campeao-do-amazonia-experience/

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Fuente

Mundo Poker Publicacion original: 2026-05-14T06:25:34+00:00