Reality Star Defeats Athletes and Influencers to Claim $20K Prize
In a star-studded field in Las Vegas, reality TV personality Princess Love emerged victorious in the Celebrity Poker Tour Invitational II. Her championship makes the wife of singer Ray J the first Black woman in history to win the celebrity tournament.
The invite-only event featured 73 entrants, including celebrities Perez Hilton, Tana Mongeau and defending champion Qiyu “Nemo” Zhou. Love displayed nerves of steel in navigating her table of notables like the Canseco siblings and football player Gordie Gronkowski.
After overcoming top chip leader NFL receiver Laviska Shenault late, Princess Love ultimately triumphed to claim the $20,000 top prize. She also took home a custom engraved bottle of Louis XIII cognac and Baccarat crystal glasses.
Poker Novice Rises Through Ranks With Recent Training
While a gambling novice by her own admission, Princess Love has immersed herself in poker training over the last year. Encouraged to learn the game by a cousin, she dove into daily tournaments to hone her skills.
The hard work clearly paid off, as evidenced by her breakthrough run to 40th at December’s World Poker Tour (WPT) Championship for over $130,000. Even with that strong result, her first $10K event in Vegas was seen as a tough test. But Princess Love passed with flying colors in making history on poker’s biggest celebrity stage.
Husband Ray J and Fans Celebrate Her Trailblazing Win
Throughout the riveting tournament, Princess Love had vocal support from pop star husband Ray J seated by her side. He witnessed her composure first-hand as she made key moves against celebrity foes before sealing the victory.
Fans also offered congratulatory messages on social media, highlighting the significance of her win. “The 1st black woman in history to do so!! Give her her TENS,” tweeted one excited supporter.
While newer to tournaments, Princess Love’s studious approach paid off handsomely with the breakthrough win. As the first African-American female champion of the star-powered event, her triumph will surely inspire others to make their own poker history.
