8 Ball Pool and World Cup 2026 Take Center Stage as the 8 Ball Strike Cup Launches with $80,000 in Rewards

By iamsamanthasmith11, 24 June, 2026

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The inaugural 8 Ball Strike Cup has launched, giving players across the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia the opportunity to compete in the largest competition the game has seen to date. This premier AviaGames tournament brings together competitive 8 ball pool action and the excitement surrounding World Cup 2026.

Taking place from June 12 through July 17, the tournament features $80,000 in total rewards and offers skilled competitors a shot at making history as the first-ever 8 Ball Strike Cup champion. Presented as part of AviaGames' collaboration with the Argentine Football Association (AFA), the event challenges players to advance through multiple rounds on their journey toward the title. Fans following every soccer game during the tournament season can also enjoy the action on the virtual table.

The competition reaches its finale during the Championship on July 16 and 17, where gaming creator Troydan and pool icon Florian "Venom" Kohler will host a live broadcast. Fans can expect Troydan's trademark entertainment alongside Venom's expert analysis as they cover every key play, comeback, and championship-defining moment.

Play for Your Portion of $80,000 in Rewards

The tournament winner will receive $10,000 in cash along with a jersey signed by members of the Argentina National Team, including Lionel Messi. Players interested in learning more about tournament rules, qualification requirements, and reward details can review the complete 8 Ball Strike Cup guide.

"We're excited to celebrate our partnership with the AFA through our first-ever tournament and provide a unique opportunity for our players," said CEO Vickie Chen. "By turning everyday 8 Ball Strike gameplay into an exciting competitive event, we're creating a stage for players and creator partners alike, and we're looking forward to seeing who rises to the top."

As one of AviaGames' biggest competitive events, the tournament gives fans of real cash games another exciting way to showcase their skills.

Prepare for the Road to the Championship

The event is now in progress, and players should confirm that they meet all participation requirements, including account eligibility, gameplay activity, and deposit qualifications. Full details can be found in the official tournament guide.

The competition unfolds across three phases:

Group Stage: June 12 to June 25
Playoffs: June 26 to July 5
Championship: July 16 to July 17

At the end of the journey, one player will earn the title of the first 8 Ball Strike Cup champion.

Championship Livestream

Everything leads to the final showdown.

On July 16 and 17, the last 32 group champions will face off in pursuit of the largest reward pool ever featured in 8 Ball Strike.

Fans can follow every critical moment during the live Championship broadcast. Viewers who are not competing can still join the experience by watching matches, supporting their favorite players, and participating in livestream activities for opportunities to win prizes.

The livestream will be available through the 8 Ball Strike Facebook page as well as the YouTube channels of Troydan and Venom. Whether you've followed the tournament from day one or are tuning in for the finals, the Championship broadcast offers a front-row seat to the biggest moments of the event.

Troydan and Venom Share Their Excitement

The Championship broadcast will feature commentary and analysis from some of the most recognized names in gaming and pool.

Known for his humor and energetic personality, Troydan will bring his unique style to the event. Joining him is Florian Kohler (Venom), the internationally recognized trick-shot artist and pool expert whose insights and experience have made him a respected figure in the sport.

Esports host and commentator Katie Bedford will also be part of the broadcast team, helping guide viewers through the action throughout the Championship.

"I'm excited to partner with AviaGames and add even more excitement to the 8 Ball Strike Cup Championship as a commentator," Troydan said. "I can't wait to see players bring their best performance and enthusiasm to this special event."

"As someone who has loved pool for years, I'm excited to see how the 8 Ball Strike Cup showcases the skill, creativity, and pressure that make the game so compelling," Venom said. "I'm looking forward to watching the competitors, breaking down the key moments, and seeing the strategies that emerge throughout the Championship."

Discover More About the 8 Ball Strike Cup

Players can begin getting ready now as the tournament continues.

As one of the largest events ever introduced to 8 Ball Strike, the competition highlights the growing popularity of skill-based mobile gaming and the communities that form around it. Starting June 12, players will compete for a share of the $80,000 reward pool, a signed Lionel Messi jersey, and the opportunity to become the first champion in tournament history.

Fans can follow the action all the way through the Championship on July 16 and 17, where Troydan, Venom, and Katie Bedford will bring viewers closer to every memorable moment during the official livestream.

For players following World Cup 2026, making soccer picks, or enjoying every soccer game, the 8 Ball Strike Cup offers another exciting competition to follow. Fans of real cash games and 8 ball pool can learn more about qualification requirements, tournament stages, the Bo5 format, reward distribution, and Championship details in the full 8 Ball Strike Cup guide before competing.