Billiards fans around the world are in for a massive treat as four of the greatest pool players in history gear up for an epic comeback. The World Nine-ball Tour has officially announced the WNT Legends—a once-in-a-generation showdown featuring the sport’s all-time icons.
A Legendary Filipino Reunion on the Global Stage
This tournament will bring together the two biggest names in Philippine billiards history. Efren “Bata” Reyes, widely regarded as the GOAT of pool and a four-time Eight-ball World Champion, will reunite with fellow world champion Francisco “Django” Bustamante. The legendary Filipino duo will face equally formidable opponents: Earl “The Pearl” Strickland, Reyes’s long-time rival, a three-time World Champion, and one of the greatest Nine-ball players ever, and Ralf “The Kaiser” Souquet, Europe’s most decorated pool star and also a former World Champion. The premier three-day event will take place from January 22-24 in Manila, Philippines, and will serve as a tribute to their storied careers and the mark they’ve left on the sport.
Despite being past their prime, the two Philippine billiards legends remain very much at the top of their game. Reyes continues to represent the Philippines internationally, competing in carom at the recent editions of the SEA Games. Bustamante, meanwhile, has taken on a mentorship role for Team Asia, leading them to a lopsided victory in the recently concluded Reyes Cup. He also delivered on the table himself, winning an intense 10–9 showdown against current world No. 1 Fedor Gorst in the Philippine Open.
