The 2025 World Series of Poker continues to draw massive crowds, and Event #19—the $500 COLOSSUS No-Limit Hold’em tournament—has proven once again why it’s one of the most anticipated and accessible events on the calendar. Held at the bustling Horseshoe and Paris Las Vegas venues, the COLOSSUS saw thousands of players take their shot at poker glory and a life-changing payday.
Affordable, inclusive, and filled with excitement, the COLOSSUS embodies the spirit of the WSOP, attracting both amateur hopefuls and seasoned pros to compete on poker’s biggest stage.
Record-Breaking Turnout for a $500 Buy-In
The COLOSSUS has always been known for its sheer volume, but this year’s turnout surpassed expectations. With multiple starting flights across several days, the event welcomed well over 10,000 entrants, making it one of the largest fields in WSOP history.
The structure’s low buy-in and deep starting stacks created an ideal environment for long-lasting play, strategic maneuvering, and thrilling comebacks. The atmosphere in the tournament room was electric, as players from around the globe vied for a share of the multi-million-dollar prize pool.
The Appeal of the COLOSSUS Format
What sets the COLOSSUS apart is its commitment to accessibility. The $500 buy-in allows newcomers to experience the grandeur of the WSOP without breaking the bank. Combined with the massive guaranteed prize pool, it’s no surprise that this event is a fan favorite every year.
The tournament also offered:
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Multiple Day 1 flights, giving players flexibility in their schedules
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A generous starting stack of 50,000 chips
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A slow, player-friendly blind structure
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Re-entry options to increase action and opportunity
This balance of value and excitement continues to make COLOSSUS a pillar of the summer poker season.
Diverse Player Field and WSOP Dreams
The field included an eclectic mix of recreational players, online qualifiers, and poker veterans. Many entered with dreams of scoring their first WSOP cash, while others aimed to add another deep run to their resume.
From college students to retirees, the diversity at the tables was a testament to poker’s global appeal. Stories of double-ups, lucky rivers, and massive coolers echoed throughout the tournament floor, creating unforgettable moments at every table.
Prize Pool and Payout Structure
With such a massive field, the prize pool surged past expectations. The winner is expected to take home a six-figure payday, along with the prestigious WSOP gold bracelet. Payouts extended to hundreds of players, with even min-cashers walking away with more than double their buy-in.
The final table promises not just high-stakes drama, but also a life-changing moment for at least one player who entered with $500 and a dream.
What’s Next in the WSOP Schedule?
Following the COLOSSUS, the WSOP will continue with a full slate of events including:
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Event #20 – $1,500 Razz
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Event #21 – $10,000 No-Limit 2-7 Lowball Draw Championship
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Event #22 – $1,000 Ladies Championship
Players are already looking ahead to the next big-field event, but COLOSSUS will remain one of the most talked-about highlights of this year’s series.
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