Bleznick Defends His WSOP Commentary Style

Poker player and sports cards entrepreneur Jared Bleznick sparked debate this summer with his commentary during WSOP live broadcasts. Speaking on the Late Reg podcast hosted by Brian Rast and Phil Laak, Bleznick defended his own style.

The 2024 WSOP bracelet winner had reacted when the broadcast moved to the Seniors High Roller event during the 250 thousand dollar Super High Roller tournament. With three players left and 4 million dollars at stake, he called out to his broadcast partner Ali Nejad. Some viewers interpreted those remarks as disrespectful to the Seniors event.

On the podcast, Bleznick argued that poker commentary is generally bad. In his view, commentators all focus only on the game. What viewers actually want, he said, is to find the broadcast entertaining.

The trio agreed that Nick Schulman is the best name in the job. Bleznick, however, said that skilled commentators like Schulman do not draw amateurs into the game. While saying he respects Schulman, Bleznick added that Schulman speaks at a very high level. He also said that viewers of the WSOP Main Event and High Stakes Poker are already poker players, and that reaching a new audience is possible through entertainment.