Stephen Bean Banks £19,603 in 888poker LIVE London Victory

They say form is temporary but class is permanent, and that phrase perfectly describes Stephen Bean’s comeback. After being a regular fixture on the British poker scene between 2014 and 2019, Bean had gone more than five years without a live tournament cash. That streak ended in spectacular fashion at the 888poker LIVE London Crazy 8 Opening Event, where he not only cashed but secured the top prize of £19,603—the biggest payday of his career.

The £500 buy-in tournament, which carried a guaranteed £100,000 prize pool, drew 258 entries and ultimately generated £110,300 in winnings. Bean, once known for his deep runs in events like the GUKPT London Main Event, found his rhythm again, reminding the poker world that his skills were never in doubt.

For Bean, this victory was more than just a result on paper—it was a statement of resilience, patience, and love for the game.

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888poker LIVE London Crazy 8 Opening Event Final Table Results

The nine-handed final table showcased a blend of experienced names and rising talents. Here’s how the payouts unfolded:

Bean’s Road to Victory

Early Eliminations

The final table kicked off with the departure of Janice Phillips in ninth place. Known for her consistent results in low-to-mid-stakes events, Phillips added another £2,520 to her bankroll. Soon after, Dan Samson exited in eighth, collecting £3,120, followed by Sebastien Jung in seventh.

Familiar Names in the Mix

Among the contenders was Joe Hindry, who famously won £60,000 at an 888poker Weekend Live Main Event three years ago. While he couldn’t replicate that success, he still secured £5,180 for his sixth-place finish. Louis Francis followed in fifth, earning £6,830 before the action shifted to the top four.

Deal and Drama

With the stakes climbing, the final four—Bean, Paul Ephremsen, Scott Berko, and Kallum Bascombe—opted for an ICM deal, softening the pay jumps while leaving the trophy and some extra cash for the eventual winner. Berko, who made headlines with his 43rd-place finish in the 2023 WSOP Main Event, fell in fourth, while Bascombe finished in third for £12,405, the second five-figure score of his career.

The Heads-Up Duel

The title came down to Stephen Bean vs. Paul Ephremsen. Ephremsen, a seasoned player with a memorable third-place finish at the 2015 WSOP, looked poised for another title shot. However, it was Bean’s day. Staying composed under pressure, he edged out his opponent to secure the trophy and £19,603 in prize money, marking a dream return to the live poker scene.

£250,000 Guaranteed Main Event Begins September 11

The action in London is far from over. The 888poker LIVE London festival continues this week with its crown jewel—the £1,250 buy-in Main Event. With a massive £250,000 guaranteed prize pool, the tournament is expected to draw a strong field of local heroes and international stars alike. Running from September 11 to September 14, 2025, PokerNews will provide live reporting throughout the event, ensuring fans won’t miss a single hand as another champion is crowned.

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FAQs

1. Who won the 888poker LIVE London Crazy 8 Opening Event?
Stephen Bean won, securing £19,603 and the winner’s trophy.

2. How many players entered the Crazy 8 event?
The tournament drew 258 entries, exceeding the £100,000 guarantee.

3. When was Stephen Bean’s last live cash before this victory?
His previous live tournament cash was in January 2020.

4. Who finished runner-up in the event?
Paul Ephremsen finished second, taking home £13,699 after a four-way deal.

5. When does the 888poker LIVE London Main Event begin?
The £1,250 buy-in Main Event begins on September 11, 2025, with a £250,000 guarantee.

Image and Content Courtesy: POKERNEWS