*Magical* EFREN REYES vs MIKE SIGEL $200,000 8-BALL

[@raycarltonbilliards5798]

[@jordanisme5673]

biliar de los que no tienen

[@raycarltonbilliards5798]

Gracias por tu comentario, Jordan. Me alegra que estés disfrutando los videos.

[@andywild2976]

@@raycarltonbilliards5798 .

[@danilodelacruz2858]

@@andywild2976 thanks i enjoyed viewing ur billiard.

[@reducecotwo]

Make's for an interesting tournament when both players are extremely nervous. 👍

[@tslaza]

What is so amazing about Efren is that he is so humble. Its extremely rare in today's world that someone with his dominating skills and talent can remain so calm, respectful and humble. What a admirable person he is. I wish this game was more popular so that today's youth could have a role model like him to shape their outlook on sportsman ship and life!

[@daisyrayton2669]

Very well said sir

[@bill8by5]

He is such a great man, and obviously a truly great player in a class all by himself. If you want to watch some outstanding Efren pool, go check out any of Jefgalung videos of him playing all comers in PI. He plays normally - kind of just horsing around - until he gets behind and close, then the "Real Efren" comes out and the man just can do no wrong and beats the opponent. I've watched a bunch of them and I believe he's actually lost one set, like out of 30-40.

[@Kkvng_Nova]

I think it's amazing how this video was put out 5 years ago yet the person who published it is still replying to comments and concerns of his viewers to this day. Much respect.

[@raycarltonbilliards5798]

Glad you're enjoying the videos and my abundant replies, Markus. *

[@Kkvng_Nova]

@@raycarltonbilliards5798 of course. I always love to watch efren run them tables. Wish I could do the same

[@miguelsalgado9940]

I came here to watch a couple of sets, and stood for the whole two hours. Reyes is the goat for sure

[@raycarltonbilliards5798]

Glad you stayed and enjoyed it, Miguel. Thanks for the affirmative comment.

[@christopherlarge430]

poor Mike no lay ups, L.J.J. and the other commentator make it sound like Efren isn't shooting hard shots, high pressure $200,000 match every shot is difficult, Mike is just like E. Strickland talks to much, Efren says nothing he just kicks a** and smiles, I like that

[@miguelabuan2551]

I believe that "efren reyes" is the greatest pool master in the world, he make the impossible to possible. They didn't calling him a magician for nothing. As a Filipino i am so proud of him.

[@23joelb]

the Real GOAT

[@ccrider00]

Is your country proud when he picks his nose and < I'm not even going to say it, "you know" in between shots right in front of spectators and live t.v. Is this common to do this in the Philippines⁉️👀😮😱😖🥴🤮🤚👳‍♂️🥳

[@tokunaremu5238]

I don't play so much pool but each time i get to watch Mr Effren, i get inspired to be better at whatever I do. His humility crowns it all. Such a wonder and a joy to watch. . . And then, he didn't forget to thank everyone. ♥

[@raycarltonbilliards5798]

Millions of players worldwide of all skill levels have -- and continue to -- agree with your very well expressed sentiments. Thanks for posting that, Tokuna.

[@tokunaremu5238]

@@raycarltonbilliards5798 I have just followed. Thank you.

[@newlife1123]

i have never touched the cue till yoday 😅 still i am watching him 😅

[@chriskindler10]

Sigel is just talking all the time but Reyes is playing.

[@aarondarkknight3057]

Mike's strategy is shoot his mouth and distract the opponents non stop. It didn't work out on Efren, To think, Efren was tired before the tournament, he played ten games in two days and a very hard 4th round in the semis.

[@jamieargent6707]

just pool players that's àll

[@nobody-6308]

After all those incredible shots, he just said at the end “I got lucky?” What a humble man

[@kenoh1137]

Jerickson Malacaman that’s when you know who’s the real champion of the world I mean he’s just a man that enjoys the game he’s the greatest

[@MrSkinkarde]

well yea it is a game of luck mostly. i say the same thing every time i win

[@arcradious2302]

He says that all the time

[@yacovmitchenko1490]

In many others, this might have sounded like false modesty. (Who after all believes he got lucky?) Yet one does get the feeling that Reyes is genuinely modest.

[@angelomacalandag7982]

@@MrSkinkarde Physics be like: *WHAT AM I TO YOU ?*

[@rengpuiacolney7328]

Why am i still watching this at 3am in the morning when i have a meeting at 9:30? But goddamn. The sheer humility and lovable character of Reyes is so pleasing to watch

[@raycarltonbilliards5798]

I've known Efren for more than 30 years and can personally tell you that he has no equal for a lifetime of being gentlemanly, fair, humble, and respectful of other pros and spectators always -- meanwhile playing with unearthly skill and the imagination and vision of a true genius. *A humble genius -- that's a category of genius rarely seen in world history*. Such a decent, wholesome man. A wonderful role model for young and older folks alike, and for emerging players everywhere. Pool players of all ages around the world (and millions of non-players too) all love Efren. *His skills, sportsmanship and unmistakable human kindness dazzle everyone. He probably has inspired more players to begin playing our wonderful sport, than any player in the 170-year history of professional billiards*.

[@terrellmoodi735]

Best reply ever on yt. Bless you

[@Mrphilharmonic]

Siegel displays poor form - dreadful execution of shots, talking continuously whilst an opponent is shooting (lucky for him Efren is so easy going), crying after his shots , almost ‘begging’ the crowd for sympathy. Considering Siegel is supposed to be a world class player, this ‘exhibition’ is pathetic!!

[@Raindeux]

They're mic'd up, Efren can't hear him muttering in his corner. But his talking at the table is just his style. Other than that this match was not a good representation of his skills lol, very unlike him. He looked shell shocked after that first set, never able to get going. Don't think he ever recovered.

[@MochudiSwaagVEVO]

Well said

[@ThatE46]

The reason Reyes was getting such "Easy shots" or "Lay ups" is because he put himself in position for those shots. He did a great job.

[@davidgonzalez-ql7cv]

WeLoveGoProHD the funny thing is that the stupid commentators believed mike had all the difficult shots. Way too biased.

[@paulcarlson4230]

No the bragged on efren the whole match

[@stevenroberts9380]

Efren always does such a great job with the cue ball. The best of all time in my humble opinion

[@sabbataizevi4031]

i just see reyes just like jeffrey dahmer taking his actions with the victim. not at all this is a equal match

[@japacpq]

A preparação de Efren para a próxima jogada é fantástica.

[@briankaelin7728]

When Efren made the winning shot my eardrums got blasted from him yelling “YAAAAAAY”. He’s so happy. Nobody deserves it more.

[@jaytolentino13]

Siegel you were the only the king..But the King cannot be matched with the Magician which is the toughest player to beat because he has all the shots that you wouldn't imagine and that is why Reyes is untouchable in pool!

[@jeml.1703]

jaytolentino13 that is truly indeed!

[@jomelpeligro3584]

jaytolentino13 very well said

[@alvinarbuis1081]

@@jomelpeligro3584 7

[@kylestewart4444]

Reyes is an absolute legend and he earned every bit of it. It's great to see someone who has spent so much of his life working for something finally take home the big prize and the title.

[@sabejreid2072]

A true Magician!

[@yhaerysthethird6088]

This is so true. Respect.

[@gabrielbrunet5598]

Don't we all wanna be like Efren? Always smiling and laughing through our mistakes. Being humble and grateful. That's how all humans should be!

[@raycarltonbilliards5798]

Good and actually profound sentiment, Gabriel. Except for certain occupations -- airline pilots, heart and brain surgeons, maternity ward nurses, radiologists -- we don't want those humans smiling and laughing thru their mistakes. We all agree on that, I'm sure.

[@gabrielbrunet5598]

@@raycarltonbilliards5798 Oh that's true, I was more talking about our mistakes in our daily lives at home, not feeling that heavy pressure all the time. Being at ease and realising that mistakes are part of life. I do agree that these people would never laugh about that

[@AegisFury00]

Technical mistake to be exact.

[@jeremiahwilson1781]

I been watching other youtube clips of Reyes and one commentator said it best - "I can play against Reyes just about as good as anyone...seeing how you can never get off your chair". Lol. I thought that summed up the magic of this player the best.

[@gerardoquintanilla1959]

I live in central América and I bet 85% of the people from here loves soccer, however I'm sure anybody could get in love with pool just by watching how Efren Reyes used to play and how humble he is.

[@galfoanelyn7565]

He is our LEGEND.

[@khaderuddinwaseemmohammad7599]

I can't believe i actually watch the whole match. Really me ! Watching these two well experienced players was really an honor. Cheers to them!🎉

[@drix445]

Efren is always hard to beat when money is involved. he never loss when bigger money is on the table. this is why he is the best in the business.

[@danrion8839]

Efren Reyes is a humble, decent and down to earth player. Great temperament which makes him greatest Pool player.

[@wastery9113]

I really like how the publisher of this video puts so much effort in answering the comments. I know almost nothing about pool besides casually playing sometimes, but his detailed answers make my life just a tad bit easier.

[@raycarltonbilliards5798]

Thanks for the kind words, Wastery. To paraphrase the decades-old saying: "Flattery will get you everywhere." (The original tongue-in-cheek film dialogue had it as "Flattery will get you nowhere.")

[@evervescent3290]

22:00 -- "mike knows he's ready... he just needs a chance" but he had several chances. Efren is simply on another level. Mike is incredibly skilled but it's wrong to act like Efren did anything but whoop him here -- both players, talented, but Efren is one in a million. Great vid!

[@raycarltonbilliards5798]

EV: Top sports coaches and sports physiologists of any sport always stress to their students the major psychological difference between being "prepared" and being "ready". Your training, rigorous practice sessions and years of possessing advanced skills get you well *"prepared"* for a given event, but being *ready* is entirely *mental and emotional* . . . and those two elements usually make the significant difference in the outcome on any given day during any major *one-on-one* sports event.

[@t.n.9508]

Cant believe sigel was king of the hill, who did he play, amateurs? This dude's form and stroke looks stiff and he doesnt stay down on shots. Efren deserves this title.

[@aaroncross2424]

Of course this shows up in my feed at 1:30 am. I still watched the whole thing, though. Efren is a breed of his own.

[@skipper9400]

Efren Reyes is without ANY doubt whatsoever the best I've ever seen, and I'm 73, and I've seen them ALL...he's the best I've EVER seen.....he does the totally impossible, and makes it look EASY...and I shoot pool myself, so I know.

[@trythinkingforachange4201]

The best man won - great show. Nice to see a humble champion - shows true class.

[@heyimjustin3616]

It's great that it has been 5 years since this video was uploaded, but you still continue to reply to the recent comments. I respect that. And of course I enjoyed the content as well.

[@raycarltonbilliards5798]

Many thanks for that thoughtful sentiment , HJ. Glad you're enjoying the vids.

[@adamjacoby4140]

Efron Reyes is a class act. I like how humble he is yet so confident on the pool table. Amazing job. Congrats.

[@thanos834]

“He’s joking on the outside.. but he’s dying on the inside”.. Commentators killin me 🤣💀

[@saedejustin9396]

Omm😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@Lordallen01]

Reyes is truly the king, I love watching him. He really is humble.

[@raycarltonbilliards5798]

Interesting to note, is the fact that Efren's last name is a literal pluralization of the Spanish word for *king* . . . . "rey".

[@poolbiljartmaster]

I'm watching pool for over 20 years now. Efren Reyes is the best all-round ever!!!!!

[@maxvirtus2614]

He's god.

[@ReR7474]

No. He is the Magician

[@VipDragon18]

no,he is MAGICIAN GOD

[@VipDragon18]

no,he is MAGICIAN GOD

[@joelent7244]

No,He Is A Human😆

[@oscarsanchez443]

Efren feels no pressure or fear when shooting pool...The only nightmare is the interview. Lol

[@acoustic3865]

L. V. Gargiulo 2 months ago BIG mouth silenced. LOL

[@oscarsanchez443]

Lol...Yea no doubt

[@ikhal3d]

It's 2022 and I just finished watching the whole game. What a match!

[@raycarltonbilliards5798]

Glad you enjoyed it, Khaled. *

[@jamespanaski799]

There is no doubt Efren Reyes is the greatest pool player who ever handled the pool stick. His unpredictable shots on desperate situations were astounding that his peers dubbed him the "Magician". Not that he is unbeatable. In fact, some players were able to beat him on many occasions but never when the prizes were big and worth winning.

[@vFrosty2K]

And let’s be honest the better player can lose a lot of the times in pool if someone is having a good day they can clear tables easily

[@tonganspanish9062]

Efren reyes you beauty ! love your work and your humble ways in approching a high quality sport. you are the G.O.A.T the micheal jordan of billard. Appreciate watching your craft man you a beast. GO REYES !!! from the islands of TONGA !!

[@tonyrome068]

One of the best and the humblest men in the sport!

[@raycarltonbilliards5798]

I've known Efren for more than 30 years and can personally tell you that he has no equal for a lifetime of being gentlemanly, fair, humble, and respectful of other pros and spectators always -- meanwhile playing with unearthly skill and the imagination and vision of a true genius. *A humble genius -- that's a category of genius rarely seen in world history.* Such a decent, wholesome man. A wonderful role model for young and older folks alike, and for emerging players everywhere. Pool players of all ages around the world (and millions of non-players too) all love Efren. *His skills, sportsmanship and unmistakable human kindness dazzle everyone. He probably has inspired more players to begin playing our wonderful sport, than any player in recent history.*

[@mori7449]

Efren is not fluent in English but speech was heartfelt ..good enough to understand that he is such a humble individual as ever

[@johnholmstrom4212]

What do you mean? He IS fluent in English (cue ball English, that is)!

[@neverend3r]

Commentators are making a LOT of excuses for Mike. He is missing balls, it is his own fault. Not bad luck.

[@raycarltonbilliards5798]

The commentators were trapped in a *very tough, unenviable situation* that was rapidly going sideways with the vast disparity in the players' respective performances -- (Efren's compared to Mike's). The issue of apparent commentator bias has come up before, but they really had few workable options as the tapes were rolling and the match had to proceed, and seem to live up to the advance publicity. I'll explain the impossible situation the commentators were in (if we honestly visualize the situation from a TV production/business point of view). But first we have to give credit to the promoter/producer for coming up with the unusual, intriguing KOTH concept for this round-robin pro tournament and putting the potentially quite exciting event together (producer Kevin is the center commentator in the booth). Sigel had been playing wonderfully during his days of practicing just prior to the on-camera event - continually running 6 and 7 racks of 8-ball with ease and dazzling onlookers. But his universally respected, world-class game *just didn’t show up on game day* as sometimes happens to any pro. And as we’ve all experienced, when you’re playing badly, the pool-gods’ rolls seem to get even worse. Mike was clearly frustrated, and pertinent to your post (regarding perceived bias) -- think of the bewildering, embarrassing position the promoter and his two co-commentators were left with: How to (via rationalizations) convey to audiences, the pro player guests, broadcast executives (and not least -- the many sponsors) that while the event was indeed so unexpectedly *going sideways* (major performance disparities), the initial concept was quite valid and worth promoting it to the max, and worth doing so for planned future embodiments of the KOTH concept. Explanatory excuses and well-intentioned justifications are generally all the arsenal that any reasonable commentators are usually left with when any kind of sporting events or concert performances break down. We’ve all seen and paid to be at events that turned out to be sub-par, but far more discomforting is the commentating task/predicament of having to smooth things over as diplomatically as possible while the wheels are coming off. That’s the pickle in which the commentators were caught. They had a variety of programming and product-image obligations to consider in this case, and the treading-of-water to make the best of it, while inevitably coming off as “biased” commentary,arose simply from an unenviable need to put the best face on things. Goes with the territory naturally, but let’s admit - this was a very awkward position for anyone on-mic to be in, I think we’d all agree.

[@neverend3r]

@@raycarltonbilliards5798 Thank you! This makes tons of sense and looking back it really is a terrible position for them.

[@raycarltonbilliards5798]

I hugely admire anyone on the Internet, who -- like yourself -- is secure and mature enough to state that additional situational facts have shed new light for them, and have appreciatively enacted a clear, more dimensioned view of an easily misunderstood issue. So, I in turn, readily thank you for your reply.

[@sirbrad4]

Actually a lot of it was not his fault, as you cannot control where all the balls go especially on a break. He got a lot of bad breaks after breaks and missed shots but sometimes that is just how it goes. Sometimes you get lucky and sometimes you get unlucky.

[@sirbrad4]

Yeah that is true, but also luck and bad luck do play a role as even Efren hits bad shots and misses just like the rest. No one can play perfectly every shot, eventually mistakes happen and from the build up of pressure. I also do the same thing when I play as I am a great safety player if I do not have a good shot, I am able to play a safety where I do not leave my opponent a shot or a good one, and much like Mike this can make some very antsy and frustrated, and then rush shots or hammer the balls out of frustration. But I would say that Efren is the best overall at all of that and keeping his composure and making hard shots for his opponent on his safeties. Mike is a hyper, and fast player and also has a temper so Efren can mess with him more.

[@ChrisM-tn3hx]

I used to record every Efren Reyes match I could with my old Betamax back in the day lol. He had such beautiful cue ball control and just a vicious way of hooking his opponent if he had to play defense. Those are two of the most fundamentally important skills in the game, and that's what separates guys like him from the rest. Subtlety.

[@incubusLive]

the only time I got nervous is when efren was asked to say something after winning. lol

[@johndennismacapagal7949]

incubusLive lol

[@happybaak]

Haha trueness! 😂😂😂

[@hebrewz4207]

I speak fluent English but I do not have $200,000.

[@renatojakosalem7245]

hahaha efren is fluently to inglish the cuball

[@shadygaming6523]

playing pool against efron looks so easy, you don't even have to pick up a cue.

[@mariaantoniasalmingo453]

Shady gaming its efren not efron

[@shadygaming6523]

@@mariaantoniasalmingo453 thanx

[@mariaantoniasalmingo453]

Shady gaming you' re welcome

[@5000rgb]

If you're playing Efren just use a house cue but bring your favorite chair. You'll enjoy the match more with a comfy chair.

[@kaylaschroeder1]

😂

[@HWPcville]

I don't follow pool and honestly had never heard of Mike Sigel. I have seen numerous videos of Efren Reyes making incredible shot after shot. Watching this match I got the impression Mike, in addition to being a great player (based on the comments of how many titles he has won) is also a showman, playing to the crowd. Efren, on the other hand is a head down, deadly accurate, get the job done shooter.

[@raycarltonbilliards5798]

HWP: Good observations on your part, and welcome to our beloved sport.

[@ravensman49]

sigel is that guy at the bar who always talks over your shot and acts like it's not a problem when he does.

[@markodman]

terribly annoying!

[@johnholmstrom4212]

And gets angry if you do it to him, probably

[@deocyasol9406]

I have seen "trick shot" shows of billiard legends. The balls are set but in the case of Efren Reyes, his shots (considered as trick shots?) were made in tournament finals and he won it, too! He is not only one of the greatest players in the world but the GREATEST!

[@juanitamasian9414]

It is always a great pleasure watching this humble player play his game!😂❤

[@CarlCramer88]

Efren wins and his speech to the crowd he says, I Got Lucky. Humble

[@sicknotelvd]

i think this was his little revenge to siegels trashtalk. Love that sarcasm.

[@garyjohnson8081]

Efren Reyes is the greatest pool player in the Universe

[@johnx295]

I’ve never watched pro pool. EVER!!! This was a really fun watch. Very impressed by what I watched.

[@raycarltonbilliards5798]

I appreciate the comment Johnathan. Glad you enjoyed it. *

[@royroynovak6818]

In my opinion. When Efren made a ball by grazing off another ball he missed the next easy shot..smiled and walked away. Mike does nothing but make excuses and blame bad rolls and plays accordingly. Young players take note....positive attitude is vital. Remember...a missed ball is just another opportunity to do better!!! :)

[@patrickgriffin1637]

Mike your talking can be heard by your opponent while he is shooting. That is unprofessional WTF??

[@sealand000]

We hear it only because he's miked up

[@sevenk-1786]

So, hes sitting 2 feet away from Reyes ofcourse He can hear him

[@AllenJackson-ib7bs]

$200,000 first prize for Efran's win couldn't have happened for a nicer guy! He deserves every dime!😊

[@raycarltonbilliards5798]

Indeed he does/did deserve it, and is an outstandingly nice, wholesome, decent man. I've known him since the mid-1980s.

[@michellesingh8360]

I like the way Efren is playing...cool..calm and collective....Mike is like a raving peacock....cannot shut up...

[@axeleronclan6410]

I mean when you really check the winning game 6 of Efren. He looked like he did miss on purpose. He got everyone on the edge of the seat. 2 in a row. 2 simple shots missed. He actually set him self up so because he was already a step ahead of everyone. When you check his other videos. He knew where the ball was gonna go and why he kept so quiet because he was tactically moving things in his head

[@rakyushkhadka7929]

27:18 did he also move the blue solid?

[@zainalzainal3791]

yeaa he did

[@stevenhoang1095]

Efren is such a calm and nice gentlmen

[@theboss4303]

Just spent an hour and 45 watching pool because I think I'm starting to become addicted

[@RoyHorbison]

I'm robert. been addicted since 2001. nice to meet you

[@bobflemming336]

I have also given in to this. I'm even contemplating buying my own cue.

[@SharpKiller1]

lol so damn true....played it a week ago first time and my god i'm HOOKED....even thinking to buy a pool table so i could play while watching this magician reyes

[@mannyfernandez7028]

ray carlton more power to your channel ray...tnx for the uploads

[@mduduzigama5534]

59:19 🔥🔥🔥 Probably one of the greatest moments in the match.

[@versepicorro6641]

This was indeed a nerve wrecking Championship game. both players are world class. This is a game; sometimes you win and sometimes you lose Congratulations to both players.

[@raycarltonbilliards5798]

V.P. -- This is a completely accurate and balanced comment. Refreshing indeed to read. Any top pro in the world will admit to more than a few high-stakes matches when his/her game just didn't show up. True for any sports or entertainment performer.

[@jomai2040]

I have a feeling that Efren is breaking like that on purpose, on a consistent basis to throw Mike off. He makes it look like it's by accident, but he's doing it on all his breaks. Coincidence? No, it's Mr. Reyes putting you in a hole you can't dig yourself out of.

[@raycarltonbilliards5798]

Exactly right, Jomai. Efren is so shrewd and so smart that he quickly grasped how badly *hyper-nervous* Mike was playing; he is then able to cleverly (and unnoticeably) take just enough power off his 8-ball break so that he not only doesn't leave a shot . . . but leaves so many clusters that there are also no viable safeties!! *In other words he leaves a table that only he can navigate well enough to win.* This is an *opponent-rattling technique* well known to high-stakes gamblers (like Efren) and most top road players. It doesn't work in games like 9-ball where there are far fewer balls crowding the table after the break.

[@kaylaschroeder1]

@@raycarltonbilliards5798 That's super interesting!!

[@karenbanogon3244]

I'm Filipino and didn't know about him. Wow. Congrats Kababayan ! Thanks for putting this on KZbin.

[@raycarltonbilliards5798]

Mr pleasure! Thanks for your feedback, Karen.

[@josiecajarte1491]

Me too, I felt in love at this time watching, no wonder one of my member of the family loves to play this kind of Games..

[@josiecajarte1491]

Luck to the winner and the loser, may God bless you on your journey ahead..

[@MGaming-zh1mu]

Congrats kabayan, kilala mo na siya. Saab ka ba lumaki?

[@blaz2413]

The king of pool, Master of humbleness... Efren...

[@junkowl7539]

Błażej Tetla humility*

[@user-hh9ni8su3p]

Efren has said before the Mike Sigel is his favorite player.. and that is because this is the easiest $200,000 he has ever made!

[@raycarltonbilliards5798]

Efren had been saying to dozens of interviewers and fellow pros that Mike is his favorite player for 15 years *before* this event occurred. Had nothing to do with this *indisputably* easy win. Most pool fans presently at middle age and older are very familiar with Efren's long time admiration for the CB control and rack-navigation patterns Mike displayed *during his peak years.* Here's a great example of Mike in his prime: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hoqqinqoeM2ha6M Billiards experts commented after that run: "Pool doesn't get any more perfect than this." Worth taking an hour to enjoy IMO. I was fortunate enough to have seen this NYC match in-person. Just an amazing feat on Mike's part -- when you really love the game.

[@user-hh9ni8su3p]

@@raycarltonbilliards5798 okay thanks for the link

[@raycarltonbilliards5798]

Let me know your impression after watching it, whenever you've seen it.

[@user-hh9ni8su3p]

@@raycarltonbilliards5798 just finished watching, great performance from Mike

[@raycarltonbilliards5798]

Totally Agree. Pool doesn't get any more perfect than that. I'm glad you're somewhat familiar with Straight Pool (14.1 Continuous) and that heightens anyone's full appreciation of Mike's near-flawless 150-and-out accomplishment.

[@John14vs6_]

When Mike doesn't talk he plays well. He is still a legend though. Efren the most humble player ever. Greatest pool player of all time in my opinion.

[@duckiemcduckie4323]

reyes is such a humble man gotta love this guy

[@hsbgowd]

Totally biased commentary. They are always talking about Mike, regardless of who is shooting. Also it's BS to say Mike is missing only hard shots, truth is he isn't hitting is earlier shot correctly.

[@raycarltonbilliards5798]

The commentators were trapped in a *very tough, unenviable situation* that was rapidly going sideways with the vast disparity in the players' respective performances -- (Efren's compared to Mike's). The issue of apparent commentator bias has come up before, but they really had few workable options as the tapes were rolling and the match had to proceed, and seem to live up to the advance publicity. I'll explain the impossible situation the commentators were in (if we honestly visualize the situation from a TV production/business point of view). But first we have to give credit to the promoter/producer for coming up with the unusual, intriguing KOTH concept for this round-robin pro tournament and putting the potentially quite exciting event together (producer Kevin is the center commentator in the booth). Sigel had been playing wonderfully during his days of practicing just prior to the on-camera event - continually running 6 and 7 racks of 8-ball with ease and dazzling onlookers. But his universally respected, world-class game *just didn’t show up on game day* as sometimes happens to any pro. And as we’ve all experienced, when you’re playing badly, the pool-gods’ rolls seem to get even worse. Mike was clearly frustrated, and pertinent to your post (regarding perceived bias) -- think of the bewildering, embarrassing position the promoter and his two co-commentators were left with: How to (via rationalizations) convey to audiences, the pro player guests, broadcast executives (and not least -- the many sponsors) that while the event was indeed so unexpectedly *going sideways* (major performance disparities), the initial concept was quite valid and worth promoting it to the max, and worth doing so for planned future embodiments of the KOTH concept. Explanatory excuses and well-intentioned justifications are generally all the arsenal that any reasonable commentators are usually left with when any kind of sporting events or concert performances break down. We’ve all seen and paid to be at events that turned out to be sub-par, but far more discomforting is the commentating task/predicament of having to smooth things over as diplomatically as possible while the wheels are coming off. That’s the pickle in which the commentators were caught. They had a variety of programming and product-image obligations to consider in this case, and the treading-of-water to make the best of it, while inevitably coming off as “biased” commentary,arose simply from an unenviable need to put the best face on things. Goes with the territory naturally, but let’s admit - this was a very awkward position for anyone on-mic to be in, I think we’d all agree.

[@faithy232]

My uncle said that Efren doesn't believe in luck he believes in his hard work. He said that efren sleep on a billiard table way back and live in the billiard club during his youth and he knows it because he's always with him before he studied every move and angle how he can move the ball. It's a lot of work and no aching joke.

[@raycarltonbilliards5798]

DJ: All professional pool players greatly admire Efren, and they often quote Efren's very witty comment about luck: *"The more I practice, the luckier I get"* .

[@fernandol4773]

I like how Efren giggles. He acted like it's lucky shot. Very humble pro player.

[@westendtoronto4388]

Fernando L phillipinos are very humble

[@jaybyrdcybertruck1082]

Efren is THE greatest player to play at any pool table.

[@elgatogaming4198]

I agree m8

[@danieltingsjo5033]

I dont think anyone will argue with you on that.

[@douglasbrown1194]

My wife Filipina, she's always remind me about him and Pachio being the greatest ,I am jamaican and I always remind her about Usain Bolt and Bob Marley being the greatest, but it's all fun ,we from 2 poor countries with these legends who famous all over the world.

[@alishim5663]

That smile that Reyes sneaks in translates to "You Done Son," but seriously, both men had great respect for each other and the game. Real professionals.

[@raycarltonbilliards5798]

Thanks for your fair, balanced and accurate comment, Ali. (Amusing too.)

[@SuperflySamurai88]

My personal opinion is that Reyes is the greatest pool player of all time to play 8 ball, and he's in my top 3 9 ball players off all time. Plus he's probably the only pro pool player that could give a top 16 snooker player a good game at snooker! Playing both 9 ball and 8 ball I have to agree with what the commentators said, checkers and chess, love both games, prefer 8 ball! I've also played snooker on a full size snooker table, wow, if you think 8 ball is chess, then snooker is Grandmaster level chess!

[@jals11]

Awante Boca !! y Reyes !!

[@pindergill1578]

Superfly Samurai v 4f xm

[@steveb3308]

Sigel was good but I never ever considered him the "king of kings"....Efren is the G.O.A.T. relative to any type of pool game!!! There may never be another with his talent!

[@Badchicken06]

Thanks for sharing this wonderful match to us!! I've been into watching Mr Efren's pool matches lately 😁

[@raycarltonbilliards5798]

Very glad you enjoyed it, BC. Thanks for your comment. Here is how you can quickly see *_many_* other billiards videos that I have -- plenty include Efren's magic :

[@CalculationNation]

Sometimes our greatest battle is against ourselves...What gives Effren the edge outside his Skills is His Mind...He has Such a powerful mind and never let his emotions get the best part of him in crucial times...Mike definitely lost on that part

[@imelioaguinaldo4054]

A true MASTER, very humble and down to earth person, MABUHAY ANG MGA PILIPINO!!!

[@EllSale]

that celebration at the end was Effren's cue to let all his emotion during the game 😊. What a living legend and I am proud to say I am FILIPINO ❤

[@Sauul9FN]

we’re all human. And Efren is efren and you are you. So to be proud to be philipino because another man who’s great at his skill is Philipino is just such a low standard for yourself. (I always thought this about everyone who said they’re proud to be a specific ethnicity, due to someone else being great).

[@danielhicks4826]

You guys got Efren Reyes, a living legend, Manny Pacquiao, also a living boxing legend, and to a lesser extent Nonito Donaire- living boxing great, and Donnie Nietes- also modern living great in boxing! and several more all time top Pool players as well if I am not mistaken not bad sir!.

[@danielhicks4826]

@@Sauul9FN Not at all, their is nothing wrong whatsoever with I guess you'd call it a side category of nationalistic pride in one's own nation of birth and its sportsman/athletes, I think your making an assumption like that is the only thing the guy above or people like him would have pride in, or they are inserting themselves into the accomplishments of someone simply because they share their same nationality/ or ethnic/racial background and etc. Now maybe some are like that and can take it to the extreme that'd be a fanatic not just a fan sure, but nothing wrong with being proud of your countrymen on just a pure sportsmansship/admirable etc level, and people are on average gonna tend to support their own nation and or tribes and root for/be proud of when their nations sportsman/athletes/ and etc accomplish things.

[@marcanthonyfrancia2295]

The best pool Player The Magician Efren Bata Reyes

[@marcanthonyfrancia2295]

@@chucklesdarwinwaswrongevol9264 yeah

[@devricksimpson6979]

Mike is the best with his mouth, Efren is the greatest with his cue

[@MagicPortals]

🤣🤣😆😆😂😂

[@rtyprty]

The algorithm bringing us together once again to watch this legend

[@bigstick2038]

God when Mike started making that comeback I was dying inside. We all know a Mike at the pool hall. A guy who has to explain everytime he misses and god forbid he makes it he will tell you how great he is even longer. Efren just plays and shuts up. Mike just hopes to distract yapping the whole time.

[@uncleeric241]

What did he do to you?

[@Qwickv]

@@uncleeric241 mikes acts like an arrogant kid how do u not see that

[@wavemaker2077]

So Efren won the $200k prize money here and he also won the $500k prize money against Rodney Morris. He basically won the biggest prizes for the 8-ball tournaments. Congrats!

[@kotse9129]

Efren Reyes is on another LEVEL! Wow! The best pool player in the world!

[@mcarizaja]

For Efren it was only a practice and he won $200,000.

[@raycarltonbilliards5798]

Jason: The *full tournament* was *much, much more than "a practice" for Efren* . He had to struggle though *5 full matches against the world's best players at that time to get a shot at Sigel and the big money* . Here's the official report on Reyes *long road* published immediately after his fairly easy victory over Mike: ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- it was harder for Efren Reyes to get to the final contest of the IPT King of the Hill International 8-Ball Shoot Out than it was earn the $200,000 match up with fellow Hall of Famer and defending King of the Hill Mike Sigel. Reyes defeated Sigel 8-0, 8-5 before a standing-room only crowd in Orlando today. Runner up Sigel takes $100,000 of the $1 million purse.Reyes got into the fray after 30 IPT players played two days of round robin 8-ball to advance to the Hall of Fame round. On Friday, the six tour players who made it through joined 12 Hall of Fame members and were drawn into three groups. Reyes came out of that day’s competition tied 3-2 with two other players for a chance to advance to the final day. It was his 4.20 GLI that kept him alive. Six players were left standing, *including newcomer Marlon Manalo, who was undefeated until the final day of competition* . Although he faltered a little on the first day, dropping two matches, Reyes lost only to his countryman Francisco Bustamante in the finals round. Bustamante also took care of knocking off Manalo, who won all but his last to pairings on the week. Reyes then beat Manalo in the last round of the day, nailing a 4-1 record and leaving Manalo at 3-2. That was good enough to earn a shot at Sigel today for the big money. ~ Posted in "Billiards Tour News".

[@robertesposito9871]

Reyes is the best of all time

[@mariesolcalooy7714]

Di ako mahilig sa larong billiards pero pag si EFREN BATA REYES ang naglalaro napapanood ako at namamangha sapagkat tunay syang magician pagdating sa larong billiards at hindi sya maingay...napaka humble na manlalaro...Napakahusay kahanga-hanga...Efren ako na ang no.1 fan mo...GODBLESS...

[@raycarltonbilliards5798]

Marie: Milyun-milyong tao sa buong mundo ang sumasang-ayon sa iyong mahusay na komento.

[@lskshmariemostolesdhksks9719]

same here ❤❤

[@crypto_newbie2227]

For Efren, I think the interview after the match is more challenging than the actual game. LOL

[@nordicblood8470]

Both are great.... But for my Money for the biggest money.... REYES is the man. Frankly he was feeling bad he beat another great player

[@raycarltonbilliards5798]

Excellent, empathetic & so-perceptive insight on your part, Nordic. Kudos young man, and thanks for the pleasant to read comment.. *And as you clearly understood, it reveals the full, exceptional character and human kindness that Efren exhibits every moment of his life* .

[@jasonwhite2028]

Efren is so smooth the fluidity of his shots is masterful, he truly makes it look effortless.

[@NiirTheRaccoon]

This keeps me on the edge of my seat so much. I love pool lol.

[@allenb7874]

I dont even watch pool, but i watched this entire video! That was great!

[@raycarltonbilliards5798]

Glad you enjoyed it, Gary. Your feedback about our popular-worldwide sport, and this video is much appreciated. There are plenty more: *

[@chiguy3514]

I don’t play or watch idk how this ended up in my recommended videos but it was awesome

[@allenb7874]

@@chiguy3514 same with me. Lol

[@roxysach]

Efren Reyes created his space in my heart. He born for billiards. Truly magician in the history of billiards

[@thewolf81lobo86]

"I got lucky" that's what I call being humble, this guy is a legend

[@marvin1173]

lol reyes missed those shots on purpose! So humble he felt bad for Siegel

[@satan2.04]

yeah

[@josephteslik9057]

His form certainly deteriorated for a few games there.

[@evilash2388]

You are better uncle Phill.

[@johnstoddard7324]

I AGREE

[@raymondchow2828]

yep, he missed those shots so that siegel could get up and play for a bit, but then he just gets up there and mumbles a lot and misses

[@adrianfigueredo278]

This isn’t only a pool match between two top class pool players but it’s also a lesson to everyone out there that even legends have a bad day at the office. Don’t be so hard on yourselves ladies and gents

[@raycarltonbilliards5798]

Sensible advice for anyone.

[@gpuppy1234]

I love that sound when the ball drops into the pocket

[@briancoop4699]

that is the best sound especially if your shooting but when watching I enjoy the que ball stike the object ball

[@mr.screenshot9452]

Yeah

[@philgogler9091]

Want to meet Evran Reyes once all the COVID crap is over, he comes from the same province as my wife, I am not a professional at 9 ball but I would love to play a game with him, Philip from Mildura Victoria Australia 👍🇦🇺🇵🇭❤️

[@raycarltonbilliards5798]

*That's extremely easy to casually arrange, Phil, because Efren is very welcoming to fans year-round. Always has been. If he has no near-term tournament appearances in your region of Australia (where you could walk over and say Hello after Covid moderates), do what other hundreds of fans from around the world do -- save up enough for round-trip airfare and a few days lodging, and get yourself to Angeles City, Philippines via a Manila airport landing. Any pool venue in the Philippines can give you full contact details for Efren and any published future casual or wagering playing schedule* .

[@Cn-sk7mz]

Such a nightmare for Sigel. He’s been sitting there for a while and when his turn comes, no easy shot. You need mental toughness in this kind of match..

[@maximaaliguyon4532]

June 2022 and am watching! Love it!

[@bongtupas2525]

Best billiard player in the world...Efren Bata Reyes...Philippines.

[@raycarltonbilliards5798]

Absolutely agreed upon worldwide !!!

[@devogoddard3799]

If you’ve ever been to the Philippines you’d understand why he is so humble and nice. Even if you meet one here in the states, they are some of the nicest and caring persons you’d ever meet.

[@raycarltonbilliards5798]

Absolutely true, without exception in my experience over decades of such pleasant billiards and social interactions.

[@Eelgnotsa]

So true I went to the Philippines a month ago stayed a week. I have not seen a witness any conflict any cursing any shouting any yelling in the poorest parts they are just peaceful and just carry-on without complaint.