PokerStars Confirms: Viktor Blom Is Isildur1

On Day 1A of the PokerStars Caribbean Adventure (PCA), the site officially revealed the identity of Isildur1. Little surprise there, though: it is the alias of Viktor Blom.

Isildur1 IS Viktor Blom

October, 2009 was Isildur1’s breakthrough; it was when he became a popular topic of discussion throughout the industry by winning millions in just a few weeks’ time at online high stakes tables, eliminating players like Tom ‘durrrr’ Dwan. His achievements and aggressive play that came with an insane variance almost instantly catapulted him into being one of the most renowned celebrities of poker, which was further enhanced by the mystery about his true identity. Soon many started identifying him as Viktor Blom, but with the exception of a few, nobody could be 100% sure who he really was. Until now...

PokerStars decided to “unveil” their new pro on Day 1A of the PCA Main Event, during a heads-up match with Bertrand ‘ElkY’ Grospellier. Needless to say, a huge crowd assembled at the place to see ElkY taking his seat and, a couple of minutes later, Isildur1 walking out from behind a black curtain. Thus it is now official: the screen name belongs to the 20 years old Swede pro, Viktor Blom.

Here are some extracts from an interview with Blom made just before the announcement.

There are many people who think Blom believes he's got it all figured out. He's been called everything in the book. More than a few people have called him arrogant.

"I don't know why they would think that," he said without a hint of irony. "I am confident, but I don't think I'm arrogant (...)"

Blom is still willing to admit he has a lot to learn. He is starting to learn new games. He has also developed some sense of self-awareness, enough that he doesn't plan to approach any new adventures like he has his past endeavours (...)

He is also trying to refine his live poker skills. It's an area of poker that he admits is his weakest. "I need to learn to be more patient. I need to learn to let go of some more hands," he said. "I want to have some good live results, maybe win an EPT (...)"

Asked how he would advise new players, Blom thought for a moment and then answered, "Start slow." Then Blom paused. A wide smile broke out on his face. Start slow? He saw how ridiculous his answer was. "I didn't do that," he said.

You can check out the full interview at PokerStarsBlog.com.